Pennsylvania Dad Charged for Allegedly Blowing Up Home with Family Inside

Jacob Rabb faces over two dozen criminal charges, including attempted homicide, after 2022 explosion in Plum, Pennsylvania

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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A 41-year-old Pennsylvania man named Jacob Rabb has been arrested and charged with over two dozen criminal counts, including four counts of criminal attempted homicide, four counts of aggravated arson, and three counts of criminal mischief. The charges stem from an incident in April 2022 where Rabb allegedly disconnected a natural gas pipe in the basement of his home in Plum, Pennsylvania, leading to an explosion while Rabb, his former girlfriend, and their three children were inside. The home was decimated in the blast, but all five occupants were able to escape, with Rabb's 11-year-old son sustaining first-degree burns. Rabb's ex-girlfriend later accused him of abuse and said he admitted to disconnecting the gas line and blowing up the house.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating consequences it can have, not just for the victims but for entire families. The alleged actions of Rabb put his own children at grave risk, raising concerns about the mental health and stability of the perpetrator. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and holding those responsible for such reckless and violent acts accountable under the law.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Rabb disconnected a natural gas pipe that was connected to a dryer in the basement of his home, leading to the explosion on April 22, 2022. Rabb's 11-year-old son was in the basement playing video games at the time, but was able to flee the home with first-degree burns. Rabb, his former girlfriend, and their two other children also escaped the decimated house. Rabb's ex-girlfriend later sought a protection order, accusing him of abuse and saying he had written a note admitting to blowing up the house. The woman also told police that Rabb had ultimately confessed to disconnecting the gas line.

  • The explosion occurred on April 22, 2022 in Plum, Pennsylvania.
  • Rabb was arrested on the charges on March 9, 2026.

The players

Jacob Rabb

A 41-year-old Pennsylvania man who has been charged with over two dozen criminal counts, including attempted homicide, aggravated arson, and criminal mischief, for allegedly blowing up his home in 2022 while his family was inside.

Rabb's former girlfriend

The woman who was living with Rabb and their three children at the time of the 2022 explosion. She later sought a protection order against Rabb, accusing him of abuse and saying he admitted to disconnecting the gas line that led to the blast.

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What they’re saying

“If it wasn't for (Rabb), we wouldn't have made it out. He was the one running around making sure we all got out safe. I was so out of it. It was the worst nightmare.”

— Rabb's former girlfriend (TribLive)

What’s next

Rabb is due in court on March 18 for a preliminary hearing on the charges.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and prevention of domestic violence, as well as improved mental health resources and support for families in crisis. The alleged actions of Rabb put innocent lives at grave risk and highlight the devastating impact that domestic abuse can have on entire communities.