Family loses everything in house explosion

Early-morning house explosion in Oro-Medonte, Fri., Oct. 11, 2024 (SUBMITTED: ROREE PAYMENT)

A family of six has lost all their personal belongings after their house was destroyed by an explosion on the eve of the Thanksgiving Day long weekend.

Oro-Medonte firefighters were called to a house fire on Line 3 shortly after 12:30 a.m. Friday.

"An explosion had occurred which had levelled the house," said Fire Chief Roree Payment.

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Ten trucks and 30 firefighters attended to the fire, including a mutual aid truck from Springwater Township.

"The fire took a few hours to battle," Payment said. "The investigation is ongoing."

Homeowner Charlotte Lawrence said the family wasn't home at the time of the explosion, likely saving their lives.

"We started our long weekend a little bit earlier, and it was a blessing," said Lawrence.

The Ontario Fire Marshal's Office has sent investigators to probe the incident.

Officials say the cause of the explosion does not appear suspicious, and no injuries were reported.

A GoFundMe campaign launched on Friday hopes to help the family rebuild after losing everything.

"Everyone is fine, and there was no one inside the home," the fundraiser notes. "Mom, Dad and the 4 kids are in good spirits, but utterly devastated with this loss."

"We know times are tough, but would appreciate any help that you can provide, and the family would be eternally grateful," the campaign, launched by friends of the family, states.

With files from CTV's Cheryl Browne