| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monongah Fire Department Responds to
Wine Drive Explosion and Fire
Issued by: Deputy Chief J. Slagle
Incident date: September 7, 2026
At approximately 10:00 p.m. on September 7, 2026, the Monongah Fire Department was dispatched to a reported explosion near the 3500 block of Freedom Highway, just south of Monongah. Multiple callers reported a possible house explosion followed by smoke and flames.
Based on the initial information provided by Marion County Dispatch, Deputy Chief J. Slagle requested a full structure-fire assignment. While crews were responding, dispatch advised that the explosion had occurred at a residence on Wine Drive and that the homeowner may have suffered burn injuries.
Upon arrival, the crew of Engine 101 found a heavily collapsed structure, scattered debris, and a large fire involving the rubble. Firefighters immediately began a defensive attack. Firefighters were assisted by Monongah Fire Departments newly implemented Drone program by easily identifying “hot spots” with its onboard thermal camera. The homeowner, who was not initially located at the residence, was found shortly afterward at a neighboring home.
Personnel from the Marion County Rescue Squad, assisted by Monongah Fire Department EMT C. Beafore, assessed and treated the homeowner for burns to both arms and both legs. The patient was transported to a nearby landing zone and transferred by aeromedical helicopter to a specialized burn center.
Debris from the explosion was thrown several feet from the residence, causing minor damage to a nearby vehicle. The home is considered a total loss.
The fire was brought under control within approximately one hour. After extinguishment, crews remained on scene until approximately 1:00 a.m. to monitor conditions and ensure no additional hazards remained.
The Monongah Fire Department was assisted on scene by the Valley, Worthington, Farmington, and Shinnston fire departments; the West Virginia State Police; and the Marion County Sheriff's Department. The Spelter Fire Department remained available to handle additional calls, and the Boothsville Fire Department established the landing zone for aeromedical transport.
The explosion and fire remain under investigation by the West Virginia State Fire Marshal's Office. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Fire Marshal's Office at 1-800-233-FIRE.
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