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Update: Man Severely Burned In Council Bluffs Explosion

Thirty-eight-year-old James Aherns was severely burned Thursday night after an explosion in his home near 4th Avenue and 10th Street in Council Bluffs.

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Reporter: Lauren Squires

CB Fire Folo
CB Fire

Thirty-eight-year-old James Aherns was severely burned Thursday night after an explosion in his home near 4th Avenue and 10th Street in Council Bluffs.

Neighbors heard an explosion when the fire started around 7:45 p.m. Crews arrived to find the back of the house and second floor on fire.

Friday morning, Council Bluffs Fire Chief Alan Byers, told Channel 6 News they found "out of the ordinary materials that caused a flash explosion." But they do not know exactly what materials started the fire. They are currently waiting on test results.

Byers did confirm that they are not looking at anything related to a search warrant issued Wednesday at that same house.

Channel 6 has learned that Aherns was arrested on Wednesday and charged with possession with intent to deliver, forgery and possession of a controlled substance for personal use. He was released from jail on Wednesday.

Aherns remains at St. Elizabeth's Regional Medical Center in Lincoln. He is in critical condition.