North Newton ? North Newton Police Chief Ray Classen says a 55-year-old man was critically injured when his home exploded.

Classen says Terry Reynolds was trying to light a hot water heater on Thursday when a propane leak caused the explosion. He was in critical condition at a Wichita hospital.

Classen says the explosion lifted the house off its foundation.

Although injured, Reynolds was able to drive to North Newton City Hall to seek help. Classen says Reynolds’ hands were so badly burned he couldn’t dial his cell phone.

Newton Fire Department officials continue to investigate.