Refrigerator technician severely burned after propane tank explodes in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A refrigerator technician was severely burned on Tuesday when officials said a propane tank exploded in Richmond.

In the afternoon on Tuesday, July 22, Richmond Fire and EMS crews arrived to the 3500 block of Clay Street for the report of a refrigerator fire.

According to a spokesperson for Richmond Fire and EMS, a refrigerator technician was using a torch to cut out an old compressor -- which circulates refrigerant -- from a commercial refrigerator at the time.

The refrigerator reportedly had a propane tank that had not been completely emptied, and the tank exploded, severely burning the technician's face, torso and upper extremities.

The spokesperson said the fire that followed was mostly extinguished before crews arrived, with only the box smoldering.

The technician was taken to a local hospital for treatment.