Stanley C. Murphey, 23, oiler, sustained fatal injuries attempting to save Gertrude B., 23, and Lucile V. Hill, 2, and an indeterminate number of others from an explosion, Kennedy Station, West Virginia, January 21, 1913. A valve and a section of a 10-inch gas pipe, which extended along the surface of the ground, burst and released gas under heavy pressure with a deafening roar. Experienced persons who lived near fled for safety, knowing that an explosion was likely to occur at any moment. Murphey, who was experienced with work at gas stations, was 175 feet from the break. Instead of fleeing with his wife, he turned out the fire in his tent and ran 125 feet to the Hill tent. Just as he lifted the flap of the tent, an explosion occurred, and he was knocked to the ground with his clothes in flames. Mrs. Hill and Lucile had fled, and they and all others reached safety. Murphey sustained burns that caused his death 12 days later. 10166-1015
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