Fort Myers, FL (August 30, 2026) – Two people were seriously injured following a gas explosion while lighting a grill at a residence on Riverstone Lane in the Marina Bay community on Friday, August 28. The incident involved a man and a woman in their 60s. Both victims suffered first-degree burns in the explosion.
They were taken to Gulf Coast Medical Center with serious injuries that met trauma alert criteria. The available information did not provide further details about what caused the gas to ignite.
Our thoughts are with both injured people as they recover.
What Should People Know About Gas Grills and Explosion Risks?
Gas grills can create fire and explosion hazards when fuel accumulates before ignition. A leaking hose, connection, valve, or other component can allow gas to collect around the grill.
Before lighting a gas grill, users should inspect the connections and hoses for signs of damage. The grill should also be placed outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from structures and combustible materials.
If someone smells gas, they should avoid lighting the grill or creating sparks nearby. Turning off the fuel supply when it can be done safely and moving away from the area can help reduce exposure to a potential fire or explosion.