Centreville, Va. — Authorities have confirmed that a house explosion in Centreville on Sunday night was fueled by natural gas. Fire officials continue to investigate the source of the leak that led to the incident, which occurred just before 10 p.m.
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department (FCFRD) shared this update on Wednesday, clarifying earlier uncertainties regarding the explosion’s cause. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been tasked with the official investigation of the events surrounding the explosion.
The blast occurred in the 14300 block of Quail Pond Court, prompting over 20 emergency calls. Residents reported both the explosion and a strong smell of gas. Fortunately, two individuals, including an elderly man who lived in the home and his neighbor, received treatment for minor injuries and have since been released from the hospital.
Gas utility companies Washington Gas and Williams Pipeline Corporation are conducting investigations into the pipeline infrastructure in the area. A representative for Washington Gas stated they are fully cooperating with the ongoing inquiries from state and federal authorities, including the NTSB.
Williams Pipeline officials confirmed they have isolated their pipeline systems in the vicinity and are monitoring their operations closely. The company is also working collaboratively with the NTSB to ensure a thorough investigation.
The NTSB has jurisdiction over the situation and has begun examining factors including human behavior, the design of the pipeline system, and the overall operating environment that could have contributed to the incident. An agency spokesperson mentioned that investigations can commence once it is established that the leak lies outside the privately-owned sections of the pipeline.
In the aftermath of the explosion, firefighters initiated precautionary evacuations. While some families have been allowed to return home, 86 residences remain without natural gas services, and 35 homes are currently evacuated. FCFRD Assistant Chief Eric Craven noted that Washington Gas is examining a potential pressure loss in a section of pipeline located along Belle Plains Drive, a process that may extend for 48 hours or longer.
As investigations proceed, the community remains on alert while officials work to ensure safety and restore normalcy.