Local

ATF, FBI investigating Lexington house explosion. Suspect in custody

Investigators are on the scene of a house fire in Lexington on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Investigators are on the scene of a house fire in Lexington on Sunday, April 12, 2026. tsix@herald-leader.com

An early Sunday structure fire that engulfed a home and sent a person to the hospital is thought to have been an explosion, according to Lexington police.

The Lexington Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit responded to the 700 Block of Orlean Circle after investigators determined an explosion started a fire Sunday morning that engulfed the home. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said a suspect is in custody.

Lexington firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire after they were called to the scene around 7:45 a.m.

One person was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Police did not say what hospital the victim was transported to.

In addition to Lexington police and arson investigators, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were at the residence to continue their investigation Sunday.

It is unclear if police believe the explosion or fire were intentional. There was no information Sunday morning about what would have caused the explosion.

Lexington police said anyone in the area should expect a heavy presence of first responders for several hours.

Investigators were seen at the scene with hazmat suits on.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about this case to call Lexington Police at 859-258-3600. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers by calling 859-253-2020, online, or through the P3 Tips app.

Any updates or additional information will be provided later, police said.

This story was originally published April 12, 2026 at 12:07 PM.

Taylor Six
Lexington Herald-Leader
Taylor Six is the criminal justice reporter at the Herald-Leader. She was born and raised in Lexington attending Lafayette High School. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 2018 with a degree in journalism. She previously worked as the government reporter for the Richmond Register.
Get one year of unlimited digital access for $159.99
#ReadLocal

Only 44¢ per day

SUBSCRIBE NOW