Jerry Sickmeier and Lisa Jines were critically injured in a natural - gas explosion in their suburban St. Louis home Dec 31 , 2007 . Both sustained burns on 80 % of their bodies and have n't spoken since the explosion . They alleged Illinois Power was negligent in allowing a natural - gas pipe to deteriorate until it ruptured . Illinois Power Co. has agreed to pay $11.5 million to a couple critically injured in a natural-gas explosion in their home two years ago. Gas from the pipe leaked through sewer lines into the home 's utility room and was ignited by the hot - water heater and light . The explosion occurred as police were awakening and questioning area residents . Illinois Power agreed the day the trial was to begin to pay the couple $ 11.5 million .
Jerry Sickmeier and Lisa Jines were critically injured in a natural - gas explosion in their suburban St. Louis home Dec 31 , 2007 . Both sustained burns on 80 % of their bodies and have n't spoken since the explosion . They alleged Illinois Power was negligent in allowing a natural - gas pipe to deteriorate until it ruptured . Gas from the pipe leaked through sewer lines into the home 's utility room and was ignited by the hot - water heater and light . The explosion occurred as police were awakening and questioning area residents . Illinois Power agreed the day the trial was to begin to pay the couple $ 11.5 million .