Crime & Safety

Formaggio's Worker Burned in Explosion at FishHawk Baseball Fields

The incident happened at about 9 a.m. Saturday, March 23.

Morning games at the FishHawk Youth Sports Complex were interrupted when an explosion occurred at Formaggio's Pizzeria, which operates in a trailer between the baseball fields.

According to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, a man was attempting to ignite the pilot of an external propane tank at about 9 a.m. when a buildup of propane gas flashed and caused first- and second-degree burns to the man's face, arms and legs.

"Engine crews on scene were able to turn off the tanks and secure the area," fire rescue spokeswoman Jessica Damico said in an email sent to the media.

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No children were injured during the accident and there was no damage to the trailer or baseball facility, Damico said.

There may have been a malfunction in the propane line, Damico said. An investigation will be conducted to confirm the cause.

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The man was taken to Tampa General Hospital.

According to the Mr. Formaggio's Facebook page, 22-year-old James Tzilvelis was the person injured in the fire. "It appears has has minor 2nd degree burns on hand and has a sun tan look and singed hair throughout," the page reports.  "It will be a lengthy day here at hospital but thank you all for reaching out."  More than 90 people have commented on the Facebook update.


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