Washington Township NJ Explosion: 2,000 gallon gas tank explodes, killing one

05/12/2010 // West Palm Beach, FL, USA // Tara Monks // Tara Monks

Washington Township, NJ – A 2,000 gallon gasoline storage tank explosion on Tuesday, May 11, 2010, left one mean dead and another injured, as reported by Asbury Park Press.

The tank was located at the home of Donald Brodhecker, 50, on Flocktown Road, and exploded at approximately 2:30 p.m., according to reports. Donald suffered facial burns and was transported to Hackettstown Regional Medical Center after receiving treatment from aid workers at the scene. Donald’s brother, 43-year-old Michael Brodhecker, was pronounced dead at the scene at 4:20 p.m.

The explosion completely destroyed Michael Brodhecker’s Ford F-350.

The tank had been dug up from Brodhecker’s 100-acre property when the brother’s decided to saw it open. They attempted to do so with a gas powered commercial saw. Sparks from the friction ignited vapors in the tank, resulting in an explosion that required assistance from two fire departments, a Haz-Mat team, police and major crime units, along with other authorities.

Authorities have declined comment, citing the ongoing investigation. Neighbors have also declined comment on the incident.

Authorities have not stated why the brothers were attempting to access the 2,000 gallon tank with a saw.

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