Florence Mother Holds Hope as Son Battles Serious Burn Injuries from House Explosion

In a tragic incident in Florence County, South Carolina, a residential house explosion left one person dead and several injured. Among the victims was 34-year-old Michael Conner, who suffered severe burn injuries, encompassing a shocking 55% of his body. His mother, Marilyn Conner, clings onto hope as he battles his injuries.

Tragic Fire Accident Shakes Florence County

The dreadful incident took place last Thursday on Gilbert Drive in Florence. A reported explosion in one of the residences quickly transformed into an all-consuming fire, leading to an emergency response from multiple Florence County agencies. Upon their arrival, fire personnel observed flames shooting up from the house, posing a danger for potential entrapment within the structure. Along with the loss of life, eight people were absent or accounted for, suffering various levels of injuries.

A Mothers Hope Amidst Tragedy

Marilyn Conner was shock-stricken when she first learned about her son’s involvement in the incident. “This could not be Michael. It’s not happening to him. And my next thought was, okay, it’s not that bad. They got him at the hospital. He’s not that bad. He’ll be home in a couple of days,” she stated. Unfortunately, Michael’s condition was serious. His mother described his injuries with a trembling voice. “His arms, waist, stomach. His complete back. His whole head burned. His ears. His nose. His mouth. Everything is burned,” Conner exclaimed.

Overwhelming Pain and the Fight for Survival

The severity of Michael’s injuries and his excruciating pain drove him to take a moped ride to the nearby hospital, which was about one mile away. Anyone waiting for an ambulance was unbearable. The absence of screams or cries during his ride to the hospital pointed towards a possible state of shock. The silent battle against pain continues for Michael, who underwent surgery on Monday. His mother anxiously waits for the results as she acknowledges the criticality of his condition – a risk of infection and a turn for the worse at any moment.

Community Support and the Search for Answers

Whilst waiting with bated breath for her son’s recovery, Marilyn also coordinates care for Michael’s two children. The financial burden associated with the situation is substantial. Benevolent individuals and organizations interested in lending a helping hand to the Conner family may find information about ways to help online.

The incident is under ongoing investigation by FCSO Fire Investigators, S.C. State Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Florence County Coroner’s Office. As the community mourns the loss and prays for the recovery of the injured, they anxiously await answers about the cause of this catastrophic event.

Words of Faith Amidst Despair

At this challenging time, Marilyn Conner chooses to cling on to faith. “I got faith. And I got Michael on a lot of prayer lists going on right now. And I believe that God is going to pull him through this.” Her words echo the sentiment of a community praying for recovery and healing against all odds.