House explosion is still under investigation

The state fire marshal's office is still investigating the Aug. 29 propane explosion that leveled a New Milford home.

The explosion along Sunny Valley Road killed Anthony Fratino III, 47, and seriously injured Mr. Fratino's 9-year-old son, Nicholas.

It also left the homeowner, John Wilkinson, 46, with numerous broken bones and burns.

Mr. Wilkinson and Nicholas were released from their respective hospitals by Sept. 12.

Mr. Wilkinson is recovering in Bethel Rehabilitation Center. Nicholas' family has not released his whereabouts.

"The investigation is ongoing," State Fire Marshal Robert Ross said Friday.

"A very competent and qualified investigation crew is gathering information and testing certain products. The insurance company is involved."

"These investigations can be time consuming, because they follow a very methodical process. We want to give a correct and accurate report on the cause and origin of the explosion," Mr. Ross said.

"We feel we owe it to the victims and the families of the victims of this explosion."

A tag sale to benefit the Wilkinson and Fratino families is planned Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall, 25 Danbury Road (Route 7 South), in New Milford.

stuz@newstimes.com; 860-355-7322