Lawnmower Fire Causes Explosion, Lots of Property Damage

A fire that started with a lawnmower produced a large explosion that was heard by many around Waynesboro last week.

Waynesboro Police Chief Walter Smith confirmed to The News that a lawnmower fire at a residence on Porter Road in Waynesboro began around 12 noon on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. The fire quickly spread around the rental property, catching other flammable materials on fire and causing a large explosion heard by many Waynesboro residents. Chief Smith speculated that cans of paint thinner known to be present at the property may have caused the loud explosion.

The property owner’s name, as well as the name of the renter, were unclear as of press time. Chief Smith did state that the origin of the fire was not believed to have been suspicious in nature. A great deal of property damage was done as a result of the fire.