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In a devastating incident on Wednesday morning, a violent explosion ripped through a Massachusetts residence, leaving a 25-year-old mother with critical burns and seriously injuring her 2-year-old child as the home was consumed by flames.
The blast shook a snow-laden street in Taunton, approximately 38 miles south of Boston, shortly after the city had been blanketed with over two feet of snow. The thunderous noise was heard by residents several blocks away.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene of the three-family dwelling around 9:50 a.m., only to find the entire structure engulfed in fire.
“The situation is currently under control, but it was an extremely serious event,” stated Fire Chief Steven Lavigne, who highlighted the difficulties firefighters faced due to the adverse weather conditions.
A home was consumed by flames following an explosion on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in Taunton, Massachusetts. (William James Shivers Jr. via AP)
The mother and her toddler were rushed to a hospital. Mayor Shaunna O’Connell said it was not immediately clear whether they were inside the home at the time of the explosion.
Fire officials declared the home a total loss. Eight residents were displaced, and two neighboring houses were heavily damaged by the blast and subsequent fire.
Firefighters respond to a home engulfed in flames on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, in Taunton, Mass. (William James Shivers Jr. via AP)
William James Shivers Jr., who lives nearby, said he rushed toward the flames to help.
“Neighbors helping neighbors, as it should be,” he told The Associated Press. “Taunton police and fire are amazing and I’m blessed to be a part of this community.”
A warming center was opened for displaced residents as temperatures remained frigid.
Officials said the cause of the explosion was under investigation. (William James Shivers Jr. via AP)
State police fire investigators and the state fire marshal’s office are assisting local authorities in determining the cause of the explosion.
Officials urged residents to avoid the area while emergency crews continue working at the scene.
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