Fireworks Dealer May Have Caused Allegan Co. Fire

DORR TWP. (AP) - Fire officials say a west Michigan fireworks dealer who was trying to thaw frozen pipes in his home's basement may have caused an explosion that stunned neighbors and had others ducking for cover.

Dorr Township Fire Chief Harold Schumaker tells The Grand Rapids Press that firefighters responding to the 9:20 a.m. Wednesday blaze were initially held back because there "were still explosions going on'' and officials didn't believe anyone was inside.

No injuries were reported, but the unidentified homeowner's Golden Retriever died in the Allegan County fire.

Dennis Anglemyer said the blast shook his house and rattled his windows.

Schumaker says no cause has been determined, but early indications are that heat applied to frozen pipes may have sparked the fire.

An investigation is ongoing. 
  
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