Authorities: 1 man dead in house explosion in eastern Ohio

NEWCOMERSTOWN, Ohio (AP) — Authorities say a house explosion has left one man dead in eastern Ohio.

Tuscarawas County Coroner Dr. James Hubert says the man who died in the explosion Tuesday night in the village of Newcomerstown is believed to have been alone in the home. Hubert says tests will be needed to confirm his identity.

State fire marshal’s spokesman William Krugh says investigators are trying to determine what caused the blast. He said no other details were immediately available.

A Columbia Gas Co. statement says the utility believes natural gas was involved but also noted the investigation wasn’t complete.

The Newcomerstown Exempted Village Schools District canceled classes today due to debris on school property. School Superintendent Jeff Staggs says two schools near the explosion will be checked for any structural damage.