Richard Adams Sr. dies in fatal Gladstone home explosion
Fatal Gladstone home explosion death of Richard Adams Sr. – Obituary
Richard Adams Sr., 86, was killed in a devastating house explosion on Saturday, May 31, in Gladstone, Missouri, as confirmed by his family. The blast destroyed his home and sent shockwaves through the neighborhood.
Surveillance footage from a neighbor’s Ring camera captured the intensity of the explosion. While the exact cause remains unknown, investigators continue their work. According to Spire Energy, there’s currently no evidence linking the incident to a natural gas leak, and Missouri 811 records show no recent excavation requests in the vicinity of NE 74th Terrace.
The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office is now leading the inquiry into what sparked the fatal blast.
Those who knew Adams are grieving deeply. Carlos Garcia, his neighbor for the past 15 years, described him as a warm and welcoming figure—someone who made him feel at home when he first moved into the area.
“He was a genuinely kind man,” Garcia recalled. The explosion not only destroyed Adams’ house but also shattered Garcia’s truck and his home’s windows. Despite the physical damage, it’s the emotional toll that weighs heaviest on him.
Garcia said he rushed outside after hearing the initial blast, frantically calling out to Adams and his son as more explosions followed. In the aftermath, he found personal items from the wreckage—such as a wallet, a key fob, and even a graduation certificate—scattered across his yard. These remnants, he believes, are treasured mementos for Adams’ loved ones.
“These small things hold enormous memories,” Garcia said. “They help keep him close.”
City and public works crews plan to assist with cleanup once the fire marshal’s office finishes its work. Adams’ home was completely destroyed, but Garcia hopes the tokens he salvaged will bring the family some comfort.
“Please keep this family in your thoughts,” Garcia urged. “They lost a father, a grandfather, and a dear friend. He was my friend. He’ll always be my friend.”
Electricity was restored to nearby homes late Saturday evening. As of now, there’s no further update from the fire marshal’s office on the cause of the explosion.
