Propane tank leak likely caused RV fire at Sun Retreats Crystal River RV park; no injuries reported

Citrus County Fire Rescue (CCFR)

Crystal River, Florida – At 4:05 pm on Monday, November 25, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to an RV fire at Sun Retreats Crystal River (formerly known as Rock Crusher Canyon RV Resort), located at 237 S. Rock Crusher Road in Crystal River, due to the report of a recreational vehicle fire.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a 36-foot fifth wheel camper 20% involved in fire. The camper's occupants had safely exited the camper, and the owner was outside the camper, attempting to extinguish the flames.

By 4:11 pm, water was applied to the fire, and the flames were brought under control by 4:14 pm. The primary area of fire involvement was under the front of the RV where the propane tanks were stored.

The owner reported that two newly-filled propane tanks had been installed, earlier in the day, and after the right-side tank was turned on, he noticed the smell of propane but was unable to locate a leak an when he later attempted to activate the second tank, a fire ignited in the tank compartment, actively burning propane from the tank. Despite efforts to extinguish the fire, the owner was unsuccessful and called emergency services for assistance.

The last unit cleared the scene at 4:44 pm.

The fire was ruled as accidental and unintentional. No injuries were reported. The owner declined recovery assistance services.

Citrus County Fire Rescue cautions residents to exercise caution when handling propane tanks. and to immediately report any suspected leaks to the appropriate authorities.

IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE, DIAL 9-1-1 ON YOUR PHONE.

For information about Citrus County Fire Rescue, visit www.citruscountyfire.com. Its business office is located at 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd., Crystal River, Florida, and it's non-emergency phone number is (352) 527-5406.