Fire investigators are sifting through the remains of a home in southeast Elgin County after a sudden, fire-free explosion late Friday morning. First responders were called to Sandytown Line in Bayham around 10:36 a.m., with residents several hundred metres away reporting a shockwave strong enough to shake windows.
Bayham’s fire chief noted the rarity of a blast that left a house flattened but produced no flames, prompting the immediate involvement of the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office. Fire crews and OPP officers secured the scene and withdrew to preserve evidence.
Investigators from the Fire Marshal’s office, supported by heavy machinery, are conducting a detailed examination of debris to identify what triggered the explosion. The home, recently sold and vacant since December 1, had no occupants at the time, and no injuries were reported.
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority is assisting due to the potential involvement of fuel systems. Authorities say the road closure on Sandytown Line, between Stewart Road and Maple Grove Line, will remain in place until the investigation is complete.