Essex, Maryland – An explosion destroyed a home in suburban Baltimore, leading to one person being hospitalized due to injuries and necessitating the assistance of numerous firefighters to extinguish the flames.
The Baltimore County fire officials received a call for assistance in the Essex community just after 11 p.m. on Saturday. Upon arrival, firefighters found the residence fully engulfed in fire, as reported by WBAL-TV.
A man sustained non-life-threatening burn injuries and was promptly transported to the hospital. The extent of the individual’s involvement in the incident, whether inside the house or outside at the time of the explosion, remains unclear, according to fire Lt. Twana Allen.
The fire not only caused damage to the initial property but also resulted in moderate damage to two neighboring houses. By Sunday morning, the flames had been quenched, although an investigation into the cause of the explosion was still ongoing.
Various entities, including Baltimore Gas and Electric, hazardous materials teams, and fire investigators, were present at the scene to assess the situation and ensure the safety of the neighborhood.
Travis Francis, a county fire spokesperson, emphasized the importance of determining the cause of the explosion to prevent future incidents and safeguard the community. The investigation will delve into the circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Footage shared on social media by the department depicted smoke rising from the debris, with sections of the roof and siding scattered across the ground.
As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the explosion, the community remains on alert to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. The impact of the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety protocols to prevent such tragedies.