Sheboygan home explosion; woman suffers mental health crisis
SHEBOYGAN, Wis. - A woman is fighting for her life after her Sheboygan home exploded. First responders say she locked herself inside – and they believe the explosion was intentional.
On a quiet afternoon on 12th Street in Sheboygan, neighbors are talking about what went boom Tuesday night, Aug. 1.
"It was fairly big you could hear the explosion," said Sheboygan Assistant Fire Chief Michael Lubbert.
Lubbert said crews responded to what they thought was an EMS call – someone was having a mental health crisis. When police got to the house, they say the woman had locked herself inside.
Sheboygan home explosion; woman suffers mental health crisis
As officers were securing houses nearby…
"There was a house explosion from natural gas from what we believe from our initial investigation," Lubbert said.
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Firefighters quickly started to work on the fire that followed the explosion.
Investigators say the woman, who they believe was experiencing a mental health emergency, got out of the house. She suffered severe burns – and was taken to a hospital.
Lubbert said no one else was home at the time of the explosion. Officials found two cats that were OK.
It is not clear if the woman will survive her injuries.
Fire officials reminder everyone dealing with mental health issues – you are not alone. If you or a loved one are experiencing a current mental or medical health emergency or crisis, please use the following resources and get the help you need at 920-459-3151 or call 911.
"Just reach out to your local resources if you need them," Lubbert said.
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The woman is being treated at St. Mary's Burn Center in Milwaukee.
The house is uninhabitable due to the structural damage from the explosion.