House explosion that killed 2 people caused by propane leak

The explosion at a home on Connecticut Trail in Granville was caused by a propane leak, according to Vermont State Police.

Casualties and emergency response

Two people were killed and three others were injured. The explosion happened around 7:45 p.m. on Saturday.

20-year-old Liam O'Sullivan was pronounced dead at the scene, and his mother, 26-year-old Sarah O'Sullivan, both from Essex Junction, died after being taken to Gifford Medical Center, police said.

They died from blast-related injuries, according to the Chief Medical Examiner's Office in Burlington. Three other adults were taken to the hospital.

Two of them have minor injuries. Shiela Hammond, 69, of Granville is in critical condition and is receiving care out of state.

A family birthday party was taking place at the time of the explosion, according to VSP officers at the scene.

Neighbors told NBC5 they heard what sounded like fireworks, followed by a loud explosion. One said the blast shattered one of their windows.

Another had their house shake and frames fell off the walls. Police said the blast was accidental.