Julian Man Who Lost Home in Explosion Faces Long Recovery — Trust Account Established

A Julian resident who was seriously burned after his home was torn apart by a propane explosion is likely to remain in hospital for a few more weeks, according to his family. Roger Spilman, who lived in the 3200 block of Salton Vista Drive near Delores Drive in Manzanita Hills, is recovering from burns to his head, neck, arms and hands, said his son Ben Spilman.

Roger was a Ramona resident from 1983 until 2007, Ben Spilman said.

"He is doing well but it's going to be a long and painful recovery," Ben said of his dad. "He has lost almost everything he owns."

Roger and his wife, Lorraine Spilman, are in their 60s. Ben said his dad has suffered what appear to be second-degree burns and that no surgery will be required. He also said that his dad is able to have visitors at the hospital.

"He's a sociable person and would probably like that," he said.

Roger's daughter, Crystal Leon of Ramona, has set up a trust for him at the Ramona Wells Fargo Bank branch, the bank has confirmed. Community members who would like to make donations can do so at any Wells Fargo branch in any town, by giving the name of the account — "Crystal Leon for Roger Spilman" — and by letting the teller know that the account was established in Ramona.

The Spilmans were airlifted to UCSD Medical Center after being traumatized and burned by the sudden explosion about 10 days ago. Damage included the collapse of part of the ceiling. The explosion happened in a laundry room. CalFire deemed the home uninhabitable. The explosion was reported as an accident following an investigation by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department Bomb Squad. It is common for the squad to investigate such cases, the department stated in a news release.

Lorraine Spilman is due to be released from the hospital today. It is not known where she will stay.

Ben said the family has not yet decided whether to have the home rebuilt. Insurance adjusters are still looking at it, he said.