Victim Identified In Deadly Tahlequah House Explosion

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office identified the man who died when a house exploded on the southeast side of Tahlequah Wednesday morning.

Deputies identify the victim as Bernard Goeser, 61.

They say the incident was consistent with a propane leak inside the home. They say they think it was an accident.

Deputies say the explosion leveled the home shortly before 9 a.m. Officials say the sound of the explosion could be heard across Cherokee County. 

Goeser's body was found under debris. Once the body was recovered, investigators brought in heavy equipment to pick up debris and look for the cause.

The Tahlequah Fire Department, Cherokee Nation EMS, ATF and the state Fire Marshal took part in the investigation.

Neighbors say Goeser was a recently retired truck driver and a good friend.