A weekend camping trip ended in heartbreak when two Massachusetts women were fatally injured in an RV explosion at Powder Horn Campground, a popular seasonal RV park in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. The RV propane explosion came after the two lit a candle to mask an unwelcome odor.
The victims, Alesia Ventura-Large, 58, of Marlborough, and Nancy Pilsch, 57, of Leominster, were staying at the campground to celebrate Pilsch’s upcoming birthday. Both were inside a camper when it exploded around 12:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26. They suffered severe burns and were rushed to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where they later died. One passed away late Saturday night, the other early Sunday morning.
“Our hearts go out to the family[ies],” said Old Orchard Beach Fire Chief John Gilboy. “From all of us at the fire department, our thoughts and prayers are with them during this tragedy.”
“Odor” directly related to RV propane explosion
Fire investigators believe propane gas had been leaking into and underneath the camper. The women told first responders they smelled something like garlic inside the unit. Thinking it might help, they opened windows and lit a candle to mask the odor. That candle likely ignited the gas, triggering the explosion. Sadly, it seems neither woman was familiar with the odorant (most commonly ethyl mercaptan) put in propane to warn of a leak. It is variously described as “rotten eggs,” “skunk,” or “garlic.”
“It’s surreal. It’s an absolute freak accident,” said Steve Bercovitz, a neighbor of Pilsch’s in Leominster. “There was no way for them to know anything was wrong until that candle was lit.”
The destination RV, which had been parked at the site for the season, was 12 to 14 years old and belonged to Ventura-Large’s family. Investigators say it’s unclear whether the gas leak came from a damaged line, appliance, or stove knob which was found left in the “on” position. No criminal activity is suspected.
“Wonderful human beings”
According to Ventura-Large’s husband, the pair had traveled to Maine for the weekend to celebrate Pilsch turning 58 on Monday. Friends and neighbors described the two women as kind, thoughtful people who loved to travel and enjoy the outdoors.
“These people were wonderful human beings from all accounts that we’ve learned about,” said Maine State Fire Marshal Shawn Esler.
A cautionary tale for RVers
Investigators say the trailer did not appear to have a propane leak detector installed, although a smoke alarm was found inside. Fire Marshal Esler noted there were no issues with the rig’s external gas tank setup.
Fire crews contained the flames to the single RV, preventing damage to nearby units — a small mercy amid a devastating event.
For RVers, this heartbreaking story is a serious reminder to:
- Routinely check gas lines and appliances for leaks
- Always install working propane and smoke detectors
- Never ignore unusual smells — especially “rotten egg” or garlic-like odors
- Avoid open flames when a gas leak is suspected
Whether you’re camping for the weekend or parking your rig for the season, safety checks should always be part of your routine. Tragedies like this are rare — but when they happen, they change lives forever.
Source: wmtv.com
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RVT1220b
So sad! Prayers for their loved ones!
Thank you for the tragic news and inherent warnings, Russ and Tina! Very sad that they were so naive as to not realize what was causing the odor. Condolences and prayers to the families as they mourn. Congatulations to the fire department for responding so quickly that no other RVs caught fire. Have a great day and safe travels!
“There was no way for them to know anything was wrong until that candle was lit.”
Excuse me, but I have known the smell of Ethyl mercaptan since I was a small child.
I also have a propane detector down low and three carbon monoxide detectors up higher. And a smoke alarm of course.
The combined units should be banned, because propane sinks and carbon monoxide rises slightly.
I’m surprised our government hasn’t done something about the gas stove knobs turning gas on by accidentally bumping/rubbing against them. It just happened to me in my TT. But fortunately I caught it when I smelled the gas. I’ve done it in my house, but always caught it, but don’t recall any gas leaking out. God bless those ladies.