Federal agents are now involved in an investigation after a Centre County house exploded late Wednesday night.

It happened around 9:30 p.m. at 411 South Pennsylvania Avenue in Centre Hall.

Federal agents with masks were walking in and out of the home Thursday afternoon, taking evidence with them. The agent in charge said they’re trying to determine the exact cause of the explosion and whether or not it was an accident.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, or ATF, is the agency investigating. They’re working in conjunction with State Police and the Centre Hall Fire Company. Their areas of responsibility include explosive or post-blast investigations, arson investigations and criminal investigations involving firearms trafficking, illegal use and possession of firearms.

They will conduct forensic analysis on the evidence they find inside of the home and will interview witnesses.

The Assistant Chief of Centre Hall Fire Company said Wednesday evening that they believe the home owner was trying to light a wood stove in the home when a propane cylinder exploded, though the ATF agent would not confirm that.

Neighbors who were nearby when the explosion happened said there were four loud booms and their homes shook.

Agents anticipate the investigation could take a while.

“You can draw more detailed inferences based on the results of the scene examination and the subsequent analysis,” Resident Agent in Charge John Oakey said. “This collective effort and this process can take days, it can take weeks, maybe even longer, depending on the scene. Every scene is unique. It brings its own set of challenges, so there really is no garden variety explosion investigation.”

Agents said it’s too early to tell whether or not this will result in any type of criminal investigation.

Three people were inside of the home at the time of the explosion. They are all okay. One man was taken to the hospital and was released Thursday morning.

The home is a total loss, but officials said the scene is secure and there is no threat or danger to the public.