RAPATEE -- Central Illinois is reaching out to to help a rural Knox County family after their house exploded Sunday morning, killing two people.
The Fairview Fire Department responded to the intersection of Illinois Route 97 and North Street in Rapatee around 11:30 a.m. Sunday. The explosion was heard from Fairview six miles away, the fire department said in a press release.
Firefighters from Fairview, Maquon and London Mills arriving on scene found the house completely wiped away by the explosion. One person thrown from the house by the explosion was life-flighted from the scene.
Another person was declared dead on the scene. The names of the two victims still haven't been released by the Knox County Coroner's Office.
Eight other buildings sustained damage in the blast. One other structure was deemed significantly damaged.
No natural gas lines fed to the house which blew up, but it was hooked up to propane, Fulton County ESDA said.
People wanting to donate gift cards, cash or grocery cards for the family are asked to bring the items to the Fairview Cafe, 365 Carter Street in Fairview, between 5 a.m. and 2 p.m. Clothes and household items are not needed at this time.
The family dog, Maggie, survived the blast. Knoxville Veterinary Clinic is currently caring for her. The veterinary clinic said Maggie only became responsive on Monday morning. She is currently unable to move, with a broken neck and four broken limbs.