Fire Investigators' Determination Update: August 24, 2026
Posted: 8/24/2026
The Anne Arundel County Fire Department Fire Marshal Division, Fire/Arson/Explosives Unit, in coordination with federal and state partners, has completed its investigation into the residential explosion that occurred last week in the Cape St. Claire community.
Investigators have determined that the explosion was accidental in nature and originated from an accumulation of propane gas inside the residence.
The investigation determined that the homeowner was performing work on the home’s HVAC system when a propane line was inadvertently cut. The damaged line allowed propane gas to leak and accumulate inside the residence without the homeowner realizing it. While continuing to work in the area, the homeowner subsequently used a metal grinder, which investigators identified as the ignition source. The resulting ignition of the accumulated propane gas caused the explosion.
Family members have advised investigators that the homeowner has a diminished sense of smell, which may have affected his ability to detect the odor associated with the leaking propane.
As previously reported, investigators determined that the propane company that responded to the residence that day did not contribute to the explosion.
The homeowner remains hospitalized in serious condition. The Anne Arundel County Fire Department continues to express its concern to the homeowner and his family as they work to heal.
General Safety Reminder for Propane & Natural Gas
Propane and natural gas are highly flammable. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the area immediately and call 811 (Miss Utility) or 911 if it is an emergency.
Do not operate lights, appliances, phones, vehicles, or other equipment that could create a spark near the suspected leak.
Never attempt to locate or repair a gas leak yourself. Gas-related work, including work involving propane lines or appliances, should be performed by qualified professionals. Because some people may have a diminished sense of smell, never rely solely on your ability to detect an odor.
It is always a good idea to install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms as recommended, and have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly.
Update on Green Holly Residential Explosion Investigation
Posted: 8/21/2026
Green Holly Residential Explosion Investigation.
The preliminary investigation by the Anne Arundel County Fire/Arson/Explosives Unit, in coordination with state and federal partners has determined that the explosion was accidental in nature.
Investigators have also determined that the propane company that responded to the residence earlier that day did not cause or contribute to the explosion.
The investigation remains ongoing as investigators work to finalize additional details surrounding the incident.
The patient at Bayview remains in critical condition.
An Explosion at a Home in Annapolis Leaves One dead and One in Critical Condition
Original Release: 8/20/2026
The Anne Arundel County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating an explosion that occurred on June 19, 2026, at approximately 12:15 p.m. at a residence in the 1100 block of Green Holly Drive, Annapolis, Maryland.
Anne Arundel County Fire Department received multiple calls from neighbors reporting a possible explosion. Units arrived to find a collapsed single family home.
Following the initial assessment, crews located one adult female patient in cardiac arrest who was later pronounced dead at the scene. One adult male was rescued from the debris and transported via helicopter to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. Additionally, an Anne Arundel County Police Officer sustained minor, non-life-threatening injuries at the scene and was transported by vehicle to a local hospital.
The female victim has been identified as Linda Synowczynski age 76. The patient at Bayview remains in critical condition.
The initial investigation has revealed that a gas company had been on-site filling the tank approximately one hour before the incident occurred. Investigators have contacted the gas company for more information.
This incident involved a coordinated effort between the Anne Arundel County and Annapolis City Fire Departments and Fire Arson/Explosives Investigation Units, Anne Arundel County Police, and Naval District Washington. First responders arrived quickly, secured the scene, and mitigated any potential risks. Investigators are actively working to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Families have been allowed to reenter their homes, however portions of Green Holly Drive remain closed due to the ongoing investigation. Currently there is no active threat to the community. We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.