(KCCR – Pierre, SD) Investigators believe the cause of an explosion at a home south of Fort Pierre back in May (May 24, 2023) was liquefied petroleum gas migrating into the basement of the home.
The blast killed Kelsey and Trevor Hupp’s infant daughter, Harper (6 months), and both of Trevor’s parents, Bill (66) and LaDonna (61). Trevor and Kelsey’s sons, 5 year old Myles and 3 year old Royce, were airlifted to a burn unit in St. Paul. Myles was released in early June (June 8, 2023) and Royce was released a few weeks later.
A news release from the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office says the damaged piping and components of the LP gas delivery system are being examined and the investigation will continue, pending lab analysis. At this time, what ignited the gas remains undetermined. The incident has been ruled accidental.
The South Dakota State Fire Marshall’s Office along with the Division of Criminal Investigation, the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Fort Pierre Volunteer Fire Department and several other agencies conducted an investigation into the cause of the explosion.
On their CaringBridge page, Kelsey said both boys had their two-month checkup at the end of July and are healing well. She says Royce will have to wear a custom-made compression shirt for the next year to help minimize scarring.
Financial donations for the Hupp family can be deposited at any First Dakota National Bank location. Information about various benefits being held for the family can be found on the Hupp Family Support Hub page on Facebook. There’s also a GoFundMe page set up for the family.
