A Columbus apartment complex was destroyed late last night in an explosion set off by one of its four now-deceased residents. A witness in a neighboring building alerted authorities after hearing the explosion and discovering the apartment in ruins. The Columbus Fire Department arrived on the scene within minutes and declared the building a total loss.
Firefighters and paramedics attempted to uncover the four residents believed to be inside and any other possible victims, but the wreckage was lathered in so much soap that it was just too slippery for first-responders to successfully navigate. The families of the victims are having a hard time grasping this tragedy, similar to how rescuers experienced difficulty grasping the soapy debris. Crews were able to locate the body of only one resident, described as having “never been cleaner.”
Recalling past training and experience, firefighters were able to confirm that the “blast of fire and soap” was in fact triggered by a bath bomb. Fortunately, the powerful spray of bath water put out the fire on its own, preventing it from spreading to adjacent apartments. Because all four occupants perished in the explosion, it is impossible to discern who detonated the bomb and for what reason. Even though it will not bring anyone back, an investigation is underway to determine if this incident could have been intentional.
Bath bombs are a growing problem in the United States due to their accessibility and low cost. In recent years, we have seen a spike in fatal accidents involving both purchased and homemade bath bombs. Despite the push from interest groups for increased bath bomb regulation, no new legislation has been passed thus far.
In the event that you come across a bath bomb, contact the Franklin County Sherif ‘s Of ice Bomb Squad at (614)-525-3333, making sure to keep the bomb away from the bath. If you witness an explosion, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Written by Sarah Palazzo, Staff Writer