BEL AIR, Md. — At least one person has died after an apparent explosion leveled a house in a town northeast of Baltimore, fire officials said Sunday.
Andrew Doyle, a public information officer for Harford County Fire and EMS, confirmed the death in an email.
Firefighters were continuing to search the debris for other possible victims of the blast in Bel Air northeast of Baltimore.
Firefighters said there is no ongoing threat to the public.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.
Firefighters in Maryland were searching for possible victims on Sunday after a house apparently exploded in a town northeast of Baltimore.
The Harford County Fire & EMS posted on Facebook that there was no ongoing threat to the public from the apparent blast that leveled a home in Bel Air, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) northeast of Baltimore.
A photo posted by county officials showed a number of firefighters around the rubble of one home with another damaged home in the background. Charred pieces of wood were heaped on the property, and insulation and splintered wood spilled out into the street.
It was not immediately clear if there were injuries. Emergency Services personnel were using special equipment to search the rubble.
At least one person has been found dead after a house in Maryland was leveled in an apparent blast. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has left the community in shock and mourning for the loss of life.
Authorities were called to the scene after reports of a loud explosion and a large fire engulfing the house. Firefighters worked quickly to extinguish the flames and search for any survivors. Tragically, they discovered the body of at least one person amidst the rubble.
The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it may have been a gas leak or some other type of accidental detonation. The blast was so powerful that nearby homes were also damaged, and residents were evacuated as a precaution.
Neighbors have expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of life, with many describing the deceased as a beloved member of the community. The victim’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the explosion, residents are left wondering how such a tragedy could have occurred in their quiet neighborhood. Gas leaks and other potential hazards are a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks for homeowners.
In the wake of this devastating event, local officials are urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious odors or signs of gas leaks to prevent future tragedies. The community is coming together to support each other during this difficult time, offering condolences and assistance to those affected by the explosion.
As more details emerge about the incident, authorities will continue to investigate the cause of the blast and work to ensure the safety of residents in the area. In the meantime, thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and friends as they come to terms with their loss.
