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Investigators: Explosion caused by homemade device

Fort Dodge Fire Chief Steve Hergenreter has reported initial findings from the State Fire Marshal’s Office’ investigation into an explosion that seriously injured a man on Tuesday night.

Hergenreter said investigators believe the blast, which was reported at about 6:52 p.m., was caused by some sort of a homemade explosive device.

Investigators say the explosion was not caused by a gas leak or any sort of a drug lab, Hergenreter reported.

Furthermore, it occurred outside of the home, located at 809 S. 16th St.

On Tuesday, Hergenreter described the explosion, which shattered the basement window on the south side of the home, as significant.

Vehicles nearby did not appear damaged from the blast.

Joy Ann Stout, of Fort Dodge, said she’s the man’s girlfriend and witnessed the explosion.

“I could see the glass go up,” Stout said. “It was black smoke and glass.”

The man was transported to UnityPoint Health — Trinity Regional Medical Center before being airlifted to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Hergenreter reported the man suffered serious burns and blast injuries.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office continues its investigation.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Fort Dodge Police Department at 515-573-1426. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Webster Crime Stoppers at 515-573-1444, or by texting “LEC” and the tip to 274637.

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