Baltimore, Maryland- A house explosion shocked residents in the community of Essex on Saturday night. The incident occurred on Crafton Road near Avenal Road, where a home caught fire around 11 p.m. before exploding, causing a commotion in the neighborhood.
Authorities from multiple agencies, including BG&E, ATF, Baltimore County Police, Baltimore County Fire Department, and White Marsh Volunteer Fire, responded to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters found the home engulfed in flames and quickly escalated to a 2nd-alarm alert. Bureau Chief Travis Francis of the Baltimore County Fire Department described the intensity of the blaze, leading to the complete destruction of the home.
Fortunately, the homeowner and their children were not present at the time of the explosion. However, a male individual suffered burn injuries and was promptly transported to the hospital for treatment. The circumstances surrounding his presence near the home during the incident remain under investigation.
The eruption of the explosion was so intense that it illuminated the night sky, drawing attention from neighbors in the area. A neighbor shared surveillance footage capturing the moment of the explosion and subsequent fire, highlighting the magnitude of the event.
By morning, the home was reduced to rubble, and neighboring properties were covered in ash, with some minor damage reported. Concerns regarding a foul smell in the area prior to the explosion have been raised, with officials investigating potential gas-related factors that could have triggered the incident.
Officials emphasized the importance of reporting any gas-like odors immediately, as home explosions are not uncommon within the county. Despite the fortunate lack of pedestrian activity during the late-night occurrence, the community remains shaken by the tragic event. Authorities, including Baltimore County Police, ATF, and Maryland State Police, continue their investigation into the cause of the fire.
Residents are urged to contact Baltimore County Police with any relevant information pertaining to the incident. The fallout from the explosion serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with gas-related incidents and the importance of swift action in addressing such concerns.