VICTIMS OF ELLINGER BLAST DIE

  

The two victims of a house explosion Tuesday in Ellinger have died from their injuries.

Michael and Mazie Hess passed away Thursday evening, according to Fayette County Emergency Management Chief Craig Moreau.

The two suffered severe burns and internal injuries from the explosion at their home Tuesday morning.  Authorities on scene said the blast leveled the home and damaged several other homes in the area.  The explosion was reportedly felt by residents from several miles away.

After the explosion, the Hess’ were flown to Dell Seton in Austin, where they underwent several surgeries.  No other injuries were reported.

The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office, but is believed to have been a propane leak.

The two were married for 60 years.  Michael was named the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year in 2019.

Funeral arrangements are pending.