Woman Filed Lawsuit After Providence Heater Explosion
A Boston resident sued multiple entities following a 2025 propane heater explosion in Providence.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Accidents
In October 2025, a propane heater explosion at 1 Union Sq. in Providence caused severe injuries to Michele Crowe. Crowe has since filed a federal lawsuit alleging that the equipment and fuel components involved in the incident were defective.
Why it matters
The litigation seeks to determine legal liability for a catastrophic equipment failure that resulted in significant physical disfigurement and long-term medical costs for the plaintiff.
The lawsuit filed by Michele Crowe names the restaurant operator, the heater manufacturer, the propane supplier, and the valve and tank makers as defendants. The case is currently awaiting a jury trial to determine liability for the alleged defects.
The players
Michele Crowe
She is a Boston resident who sustained major burns and injuries during a propane heater explosion in Providence.
Track 15
It is the establishment where the propane heater incident took place at 1 Union Sq.
The details
The lawsuit alleges that propane leaked from the unit and accumulated near the base before being ignited by an open flame. As a result of the explosion, Crowe reports suffering from permanent disfigurement, severe emotional trauma, and extensive medical expenses.
Timeline
The propane heater explosion occurred in October 2025.
Legal Context
This case highlights the complexities of product liability in multi-party accidents, where responsibility must be traced across various equipment and fuel suppliers. It follows a pattern of litigation where victims seek compensation for catastrophic injuries caused by faulty outdoor commercial appliances.
The lawsuit serves as a reminder for local businesses and patrons to verify the maintenance and safety certifications of portable heating units. Residents should be aware of potential hazards when dining near outdoor gas-powered appliances in crowded patio spaces.
The takeaway
Commercial operators must ensure rigorous maintenance schedules for all heating equipment to prevent the accumulation of leaking gas. Consumers are encouraged to maintain awareness of their surroundings when situated near outdoor pressurized fuel systems.
Further reading
For additional context on regional safety incidents, visit the Providence Accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WJAR.
