Agawam, MA — Woman Badly Hurt in DePalma St. Shed Explosion

Agawam Fire Department units were dispatched to 52 DePalma Street at approximately 3:30 p.m. following reports of a loud blast and an active structure fire. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a shed fully engulfed in flames.

Firefighters found a woman in her 40s with severe injuries while extinguishing the fire. After receiving on-site Advanced Life Support, she was rushed to Baystate Medical Center and intubated. 

Shortly after midnight, she was transferred via critical care ground transport to the Bridgeport Hospital Burn Center after poor weather grounded LifeStar aviation.

The Agawam Fire Marshal and state investigators are currently working to determine the cause of the explosion.

We hope the injured woman makes a full and swift recovery

Following a catastrophic explosion in Agawam, Massachusetts, a thorough investigation into the ignition source is vital. Since burn treatments are among the costliest medical journeys, identifying all recovery sources is essential for a victim’s future.

Legally, these blasts are rarely viewed as simple accidents. Investigations focus on third-party negligence, such as defective propane tanks, utility line failures, or improper maintenance. In Massachusetts, homeowners' insurance and umbrella policies are critical to covering the multi-million dollar costs of long-term intensive care.

The Fire Marshal’s report serves as the primary evidence for holding manufacturers or utilities accountable. Because official findings can take weeks, a legal advocate may hire private experts to inspect the scene while it is still fresh. Unlike standard claims, burn lawsuits must account for the lifelong physical and psychological toll of scarring, including skin grafts and lost earning capacity.

For guidance and legal assistance following a burn injury or fire-related accident in Agawam or elsewhere in Massachusetts, you can contact Attorney Christopher Fiorentino of Fiorentino Legal, P.C. at (617) 990-2568. 

Our personal injury lawyers help accident victims navigate insurance claims, understand their legal rights, and access support during recovery.