Marshall Explosion that Injured Eight Caused by Natural Gas Natural gas is cited as the cause of the Marshall house explosion and fire that left eight injured, three seriously. While the investigation is still ongoing by Michigan State Police Fire Investigation Department, foul play is not suspected at this time. Marshall Fire Chief Martin Erskine described the escape of all occupants in the home as "miraculous" in a press conference held Monday, April 13. Get our free mobile app While their escape is miraculous, none of the eight were fortunate enough to escape injury. All eight individuals in the home suffered burns and other injuries and were hospitalized following the explosion. Three of the victims have since been released.