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A natural gas leak is being blamed for the explosion that killed Phil Start Wednesday in Atwood.
State Fire Marshal official Algen Taylor said the investigation discovered that something sparked to ignite the natural gas in the home. However, which appliance started the explosion is unknown.
With many possible sources in the home and the almost complete destruction of the structure, investigators say the exact cause and location will likely remain unknown.
Kosciusko County Coroner Larry Ladd said preliminary findings show that Start did not die of smoke inhalation, indicating that he was killed by the blast. He also had injuries consistent with an explosion and thermal burning.
The blast occurred early Wednesday morning outside Atwood. Start was the only person in the house. By the time firefighters arrived at the scene, the house was engulfed in flames.
