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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
In a devastating turn of events, a home in Sterling, Virginia, located about 22 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., was the site of a tragic explosion on Friday night. Firefighters had responded to a report of a gas smell at the residence and discovered a 500-gallon underground propane tank with a leak on the side of the house.
Tragic Loss of a Firefighter
Shortly after the firefighters arrived, the house exploded and burst into flames, resulting in multiple mayday calls from the trapped firefighters inside. Despite the heroic efforts of rescue crews, one firefighter lost his life in the explosion. The fallen hero was identified as 45-year-old Trevor Brown, a volunteer with the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company. Brown, who had been with the county firefighting services since 2016, leaves behind a wife and three children.
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue System Chief Keith Johnson expressed the deep sorrow felt by the department, stating, “We lost a family member. We lost one of our own. Quite frankly, we’re lucky we only have one fatality. Our folks were in that house when it exploded. They did what they had to do.”
Injuries and Recovery
Along with the tragic loss of one firefighter, 10 others were injured in the explosion. Four of the injured firefighters remained hospitalized on Saturday morning, with Chief Johnson reporting that they are expected to survive. In total, 11 first responders were sent to hospitals with varying degrees of injuries following the blast.
Cause of the Explosion
While investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the explosion, Chief Johnson speculated that it was likely propane-related. The 500-gallon tank, situated outside the house, had leaked fuel into the residence, leading to the catastrophic blast.
Two individuals who were inside the house at the time of the explosion were able to escape before the blast occurred, sustaining only minor injuries. They were treated at local hospitals and are expected to recover.
Debris and Damage
Describing the aftermath of the explosion, Assistant Chief of Operations James Williams noted the total devastation of the home in Sterling. The debris field extended into the street and neighboring houses, showcasing the sheer force of the blast.
Neighbour John Padgett recounted his experience, stating that he had smelled gas while walking his dog earlier and that the explosion shook his home. He described the scene as resembling an inferno, with insulation falling like ash and creating a horrific sight reminiscent of a war zone.
Continued Investigation
As the community grapples with the loss of a brave firefighter and the aftermath of the explosion, investigators will continue to work to determine the precise cause of the tragic incident in Sterling, Virginia.
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