Fireworks explosion injures two, damages seven houses in Phetchaburi

A husband and wife were injured when a stockpile of fireworks stored in their garage exploded in Muang district of Phetchaburi province today.

Their home and more than seven nearby houses were severely damaged by the force of the explosion.

The blast occurred at about 12.45pm in Ban Rai Teen Nam village, police said. The injured were identified as Songkran, 68, a former kamnan (subdistrict headman), and his wife, Nantapat, 48. Both suffered minor injuries, including abrasions.

Police said the explosion also damaged more than seven nearby houses, tearing off roofs, collapsing ceiling panels, and shattering doors and window glass. Two vehicles were also damaged.

A preliminary investigation found that the fireworks were being stored in the garage of the couple's house when they exploded. The blast was reportedly heard more than 10 kilometres away.

The property had been legally licensed to manufacture fireworks and had been in operation for more than 40 years without any previous incidents.

Police have sealed off the area to preserve evidence while forensic officers investigate the cause of the explosion. No conclusion has yet been reached on what triggered the blast.