The Office of State Fire Marshall continues to investigate a fatal explosion that occurred over the weekend at the Powder Horn Campground, located at 48 Cascade Road, in Old Orchard Beach according to a press release issued today from Shannon Moss, Public Information Officer, Maine Department of Public Safety, Augusta.

On Saturday, July 26, 2025 at approximately 12:30 pm., a camper explosion was reported at the campground.  Old Orchard Beach Fire and EMS responded and located two adult females with severe burn injuries.  Both individuals were transported to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where they died from their injuries on Sunday, July 27, 2025.

The victims have been identified as Alesia Ventura-Large, 58 of Marlborough, Massachusetts and Nancy Pilsch, 58 of Leominster, Massachusetts.  The investigation remains active.  Initial findings indicate that LP gas had been leaking into and beneath the park model camper.  The gas is believed to have ignited when one of the women lit a candle, triggering the explosion.  In light of this tragedy, the Fire Marshall’s Office urges the public to consider installing gas detectors in any living space where propane or natural gas appliances are used.  These detectors can alert occupants to dangerous gas buildup and provide valuale time to evacuate or take safety precautions.

The investigation will include further analysis of the gas systems with assistance from the Maine Solid Fuel Inspectors.