BRITT – The explosion at a Britt golf cart store has taken a man’s life, the Hancock county sheriff’s office says, and left another man hospitalized.
On Wednesday, July 31, 2019, at approximately 9:12 AM, the Hancock County Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting an explosion had occurred at Miller & Sons Golf Cars facility located at 2197 James Avenue, Britt, Iowa. The Britt Fire Department, West Hancock Ambulance Service and Law Enforcement were called to the scene.
A preliminary investigation found that the explosion was caused by a workplace accident from a metal barrel igniting that was used to collect oil. The explosion caused injury to Gary Olson, age 62, requiring first responders to provide CPR. Mark “Skip” Miller, an owner at Miller & Sons, was injured in a fall attempting to provide aid to Mr. Olson. Mr. Olson was then taken by ambulance to a local hospital and life-flighted to the University of Iowa Hospital.
Mr. Olson passed away as a result of his injuries while at the University of Iowa Hospital in the afternoon of July 31st. An autopsy is scheduled to be performed by the University of Iowa Hospital Pathology Department.
The incident has been referred to the State Fire Marshal’s office. The cause and manner of death will be pending the conclusions of the aforementioned investigation, examination and testing results. Mr. Miller remains hospitalized at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, Iowa with a head injury sustained in the fall.
No further information will be released at this time as this is an active and ongoing investigation.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and first responders assisting offer their condolences and best wishes to the family and friends of Mr. Gary Olson.
The Britt mayor and council released a statement via social media on Thursday, saying, “We are saddened by the devastating accident at Miller & Sons Golf Cars yesterday. Our hearts go out to Gary’s loved ones and to the entire Miller & Sons family. As a long-standing, family-owned business, Skip, Jim and company have been there for our community in many ways over the years. May our community be a source of comfort to them now and in coming days. Our deepest sympathies and steadfast support as they heal and recover from this tragedy.”
