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Taunton Today
By the People, for the People
Taunton Home Explosion Leaves Mother and Toddler Hospitalized
Boyfriend and father speaks out after natural gas leak causes devastating blast.
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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A 25-year-old woman and her 2-year-old daughter were severely burned when a natural gas leak caused their Taunton, Massachusetts home to explode and burst into flames on Wednesday. The woman, Lucitha Blanc, ran back into the burning home to save her daughter, Jenelle. Both are being treated for their injuries at hospitals in Rhode Island. The woman's boyfriend and Jenelle's father, Shnider Germilus, was at work at the time but spoke to 7NEWS about the harrowing incident, saying he is just grateful his "little family" is still alive.
Why it matters
Home explosions caused by natural gas leaks are a serious public safety concern, as they can lead to devastating injuries and property damage. This incident highlights the importance of proper gas line maintenance and safety protocols to prevent such tragedies from occurring.
The details
According to Taunton Fire Chief Steven P. Lavigne, a preliminary investigation suggests the explosion was triggered by a natural gas leak when Lucitha Blanc turned on the stove to make pancakes. The force of the blast caused the home to burst into flames, with Blanc running back inside to rescue her young daughter Jenelle. Both suffered severe burns and were transported to hospitals in Rhode Island for treatment.
- The explosion occurred on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.
- 7NEWS interviewed Shnider Germilus, the boyfriend and father, on Thursday, February 27, 2026.
The players
Lucitha Blanc
A 25-year-old woman who suffered severe burns after running back into her burning home to save her 2-year-old daughter.
Jenelle
The 2-year-old daughter of Lucitha Blanc, who was also severely burned in the home explosion.
Shnider Germilus
The boyfriend of Lucitha Blanc and father of Jenelle, who was at work when the explosion occurred but spoke to 7NEWS about the incident.
Steven P. Lavigne
The Taunton Fire Chief, who stated that a preliminary investigation suggests a natural gas leak caused the home explosion.
What they’re saying
“She's in good spirits you know. She seems fine, she's talking and everything, you know saying I love you, Dada, you know, so she's being strong right now for a little kid.”
— Shnider Germilus, Boyfriend and Father (7NEWS)
“I'm just happy they're alive. I got my little family still and everything. I'm just happy I got my babies.”
— Shnider Germilus, Boyfriend and Father (7NEWS)
What’s next
Investigators will continue to examine the cause of the natural gas leak that led to the home explosion, and authorities will likely review safety protocols and regulations to determine if any changes are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The takeaway
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of proper natural gas infrastructure maintenance and safety measures to protect families and communities from the devastating consequences of home explosions. It also highlights the heroic actions of parents like Lucitha Blanc, who risk their own lives to save their children in emergencies.
