Lebanon explosion, fire ruled accidental

LEBANON, Ohio - An explosion and fire at a Lebanon apartment complex that injured several people and displaced 11 families has been ruled accidental.

The Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office released its findings into the fire at the Steeplechase Townhome complex on Wednesday. Investigators said an open gas line in one of the units on Franklin Road was ignited by a cigarette lighter on Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Seven people were injured, including two people who were in the unit when the fire broke out. A mother and daughter, Erica and Rachel Vencill, remain hospitalized with burns. Friends said they are improving.

Investigators have released the building back to the property owner and the insurance company.

Meanwhile, the 20 adults and 10 children who lost everything in the fire have been receiving an outpouring of support this week.

People from all over the community dropped off donations at a warehouse in Lebanon.

A fund has also been established in Rachel Vencill's name at First Financial Bank.