LEIPSIC — Two people working in a food truck suffered burns following an explosion Saturday morning in Leipsic, drawing a swift response from emergency services and immediate support from the local community.
Leipsic Fire Department Chief Neil Goodwin reported that responders were dispatched to 125 E. Main St. at 10:12 a.m. Saturday. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found the Tooman BBQ food truck had sustained significant damage, which was determined to be consistent with an explosion originating from inside the trailer.
The two individuals who were injured in the incident required immediate medical attention. They were transported by medical helicopter from a landing zone located east of Leipsic, according to a press release from the Leipsic Fire Department. The department did not release the names of the injured parties.
However, Roger Tooman, owner of the Tooman BBQ food truck, provided an update on the situation via a Facebook post. In his message, shared by his daughter, Tooman stated, "My hands are burnt pretty bad, but overall I’m doing pretty good." He further conveyed gratitude for the well wishes and prayers extended to him and his wife, indicating she also sustained injuries. Tooman anticipates he will not have full use of his hands for a period but expects to recover.
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the explosion. The scene at 125 E. Main St. was secured following the incident to allow for a thorough examination by fire investigators. The State Fire Marshal’s Office has been called in to conduct the official investigation into the explosion.
In the wake of the incident, the Leipsic community quickly mobilized to assist Tooman’s business. Community members stepped up to help prepare and organize chicken and pork chop dinners that the food truck had scheduled to sell on Sunday.
Through a Facebook post, Tooman BBQ expressed profound appreciation for the outpouring of help. The business thanked everyone for "the small things like thoughts and prayers to all the help we’ve received to do the dinners tomorrow and getting stuff out of the fridge and freezers." The post highlighted the strong community spirit, remarking, "Again you really showed what it means to show up and show out in a great small community. We cannot thank everyone enough."
Despite the previous day's challenges, the community's support translated into immediate success for the business. All scheduled dinners sold out within an hour of opening on Sunday, demonstrating the effectiveness of the local aid and the enduring spirit of Leipsic residents.
