One person was flown to a hospital with burns Monday after a propane tank exploded on Pine Bluff Road in Shinnston, according to Harrison-Taylor 911.
The call came in just after 11:30 a.m. HealthNet responded to take the injured person to a hospital, 911 officials said. The Shinnston Fire Department and Harrison County EMS also worked the scene.
What we know so far
- Location: Pine Bluff Road in Shinnston, Harrison County
- Time: about 11:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 9
- One person injured with burns and flown by HealthNet
- Shinnston Fire Department and Harrison County EMS on scene
Harrison-Taylor 911 confirmed the propane tank explosion and the medical flight. Beyond that, officials have not released the person's name, age, condition, or how the tank ignited. We will not guess at details that have not been confirmed.
Why this matters in West Virginia
Propane is part of everyday life for a lot of Mountain State households, farms and small businesses, especially outside city gas lines. Tanks sit beside homes, barns and shops from the northern panhandle to the southern coalfields. When one fails, the danger can grow fast — heat, flame and the risk of a second blast if other tanks or fuel are nearby.
First responders in places like Shinnston train for these calls, but they still ask the public for space. Crowding a scene with cars or curious onlookers can slow ambulances and fire trucks that need a clear path.
What to do if you smell gas or see a tank fire
Propane incidents can escalate quickly. If you smell gas or see a tank fire:
- Get people and pets clear of the area right away
- Call 911 from a safe distance
- Do not try to move a burning tank yourself
- Do not turn switches or start vehicles near a strong gas odor if you can avoid it
Leave the firefighting and medical work to the folks who showed up Monday — Shinnston Fire, Harrison County EMS and the HealthNet crew that lifted the injured person out.
What we are still waiting on
As of Monday afternoon, officials had not said whether the explosion damaged a home or other buildings, or whether the road remained open. West Virginia Pulse will update this story if Harrison County officials or the State Fire Marshal's Office release more information.
Thoughts and prayers with the person who was hurt and with every first responder who answered the call in Shinnston. Take care of each other out there.