Arson ruled as cause of fatal Wood River house explosion

WOOD RIVER, Neb. — Authorities say one person died in a house explosion that was started by an act of arson.

The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency says the explosion happened at a house just north of downtown Wood River around 9:15 Saturday morning. The blast and fire destroyed the house and also caused significant damage to surrounding structures. Investigators found a person, who they say is the suspect, dead in the basement of the house.

According to a news release, investigators discovered evidence of tampering with the natural gas system in the house.

Responding agencies included Wood River Fire Department, Alda Fire Department, Cairo Fire Department, Shelton Fire Department, Grand Island Rural Fire Department, Hall County Emergency Management Agency, Hall County Attorney’s Office, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency.