One killed after U-Haul explodes in Lewiston parking lot; officials say propane in cargo box likely cause
A 61-year-old man from Meridian, Idaho, died Saturday after a U‑Haul exploded in the Old Navy parking lot in Lewiston, officials say the blast was preliminarily linked to propane stored in the truck’s cargo box.
- Fatality: The Nez Perce County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Douglas R. Petersen, 61, of Meridian, Idaho.
- Preliminary cause: Investigators said the explosion was accidental and likely tied to propane stored in the U‑Haul’s cargo box (KLEW).
- No other injuries reported: Authorities said no additional injuries were reported at the scene.
- Ongoing probe: Officials continue to investigate how propane came to be stored in the truck and whether handling or storage issues contributed.
Explosion and immediate response
What happened: The explosion occurred about 7:15 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, in the parking lot of the Old Navy at a Lewiston retail shopping center near the Washington state border. Local law enforcement and emergency crews responded quickly, cordoning off portions of the lot while first responders secured the scene and conducted an initial investigation.
Local reporting and official statements linked to this account are available from KLEW.
Investigation and official response
The Nez Perce County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identity of the person who died as Douglas R. Petersen, 61. Officials described the blast as accidental based on preliminary findings and pointed to propane stored in the cargo box as a likely source.
Investigators are examining how the propane was stored, whether containers were approved and intact, and if an ignition source was present.
Authorities have not released further details on the truck’s full contents, whether the vehicle had been recently operated, or if charges will follow as the probe continues. Reporting on the scene and official comments were sourced from KLEW.
Victim profile and family notifications
The Nez Perce County Coroner’s Office handled identification and next‑of‑kin notifications. Beyond name and age, officials have not released additional personal details about Petersen or his reason for being in Lewiston at the time of the blast.
Scene and community impact
The blast damaged the immediate area around the U‑Haul and disrupted retail operations while responders examined the vehicle and nearby property. Witnesses reported a loud explosion and a rapid response by police and fire crews; no other injuries were reported to bystanders or store employees.
Public safety measures: Investigators cordoned off the scene and restricted parts of the shopping center’s parking lot during on‑site examinations and evidence collection.
Propane in cargo boxes: what investigators are examining
Officials said propane stored in the U‑Haul’s cargo box is the suspected cause. Typical investigative lines include:
- whether containers were approved and intact,
- whether valves were secured or leaked,
- whether ventilation or environmental factors allowed gas buildup, and
- whether any ignition source or human error was present.
At this stage, authorities called the blast accidental based on preliminary findings, and a full investigative report has not yet been released (KLEW).
U-Haul policies and public safety considerations
Moving companies, including U‑Haul, have rules about transporting hazardous items. Local officials and safety advocates urge renters to check rental agreements and follow guidance on flammable materials. As of reporting, company representatives had not publicly commented on the Lewiston blast; investigators typically review rental records and company policies during such probes.
Implications for Las Vegas, Nevada
Although the incident occurred in Idaho, it raises broader concerns relevant to other cities, including Las Vegas:
- Economic and retail safety: Property managers and retailers should review emergency plans, insurance and surveillance practices for public parking areas.
- Public safety and response: Rapid coordination among police, fire and medical teams is critical for containing hazards and protecting the public.
- Moving industry practices: Residents should be reminded which items are safe to transport in rental trucks and how to store fuel containers properly.
- Regulatory considerations: The event may prompt local regulators and advocates to review enforcement and public education on flammable gas transport.
Practical steps for residents
Public safety recommendations include:
- Review rental truck policies and confirm allowed items before loading.
- Store propane and fuel in approved upright containers and avoid enclosed spaces where gas can accumulate.
- If you smell gas or see a vehicle emitting smoke in a public lot, move to a safe distance and call 911 with precise location details.
- Businesses managing large parking areas should ensure emergency access routes and communication plans for tenants and customers.
Public information and next steps
The investigation remains active. The Nez Perce County Coroner’s Office released the victim’s name, and law enforcement will coordinate with fire investigators and other agencies to produce a final report. As of the latest updates, there were no arrests or criminal charges and no additional injuries reported (KLEW).
Sources
This report draws on official statements and local reporting from KLEW.
Original URL: https://klewtv.com/news/local/meridian-man-killed-in-u-haul-explosion-in-lewiston
