A house in Sterling, Virginia, exploded on Friday night while firefighters were inside checking for a gas leak. Sadly, one firefighter died and at least 13 others were injured, including 11 first responders. They were taken to the hospital, and some of them are still there.
The firefighter who died was named Trevor Brown, and he was with the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company.
The explosion happened around 7:40 p.m. ET after firefighters responded to a call about a gas smell. They were trying to assess a leak in an underground propane tank when the explosion occurred. Firefighters were able to get the people and pets out of the house before the blast.
Firefighters inside the home became trapped, and others were injured outside. Emergency crews rushed to rescue them. Photos and videos show the house completely destroyed, with debris everywhere.
Officials are investigating the cause of the explosion but believe it was an isolated incident. They say there’s no ongoing threat to the community.
Residents nearby described the scene as horrifying, with flames and smoke filling the air. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the woman who owned the house.