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LEHI — Police said they believe a "mental health episode" was a factor in the explosion that injured two people and forced the evacuation of 90 families from a Lehi apartment complex Tuesday morning.
The incident happened just after 4 a.m. in the Lehi Tech Apartments, 1350 E. 200 South, in a unit occupied by a husband and wife. The couple "sustained minor injuries from debris," but were not hospitalized, said Jeanteil Livingston, a spokeswoman for the city.
On Wednesday, Lehi police said they determined the explosion "appears to be related to a mental health episode." Police did not identify a specific cause of the explosion and said it is still being investigated.
"Authorities have taken the necessary steps to ensure that the individual involved received the help they needed. Charges related to the incident will be submitted to the Utah County Attorney's Office for screening," police said
Ninety families were evacuated with the help of Lehi police and fire departments, while the Red Cross showed up later to assist. Late Tuesday, the Red Cross said residents in undamaged apartments were allowed to return, and displaced residents were relocated to empty units and are receiving assistance with food, clothing and other essential items.
The residents of the unit where the explosion occurred have not contacted Red Cross for assistance, a Red Cross statement said.
The explosion triggered the sprinkler system inside the couple's apartment, which damaged the units directly below the explosion site. "The building will remain evacuated until the fire suppression system is restored and the apartments are deemed safe for reentry," according to a statement from Lehi police.
