Sterling, Virginia – A home in Sterling, Virginia exploded Friday evening, resulting in the tragic death of at least one firefighter and the injury of 11 others, including nine firefighters and two civilians. The blast occurred as fire crews were conducting an investigation inside the house.
According to Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, the injured individuals were hospitalized with injuries ranging from severe to less severe. The firefighters had responded to the scene around 7:40 p.m. ET and were inside the home at the time of the explosion, which was described as causing “total devastation” by James Williams, the department’s assistant chief of operations.
Photographs and video footage of the aftermath depict a massive plume of smoke rising from the destroyed home, with debris scattered in the surrounding area. Multiple fire trucks and emergency vehicles can be seen at the scene, with firefighters working tirelessly to free themselves and others trapped in the wreckage.
The cause of the blast is currently unknown, and authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident. As the community grapples with this tragic event, support and solidarity are being emphasized as essential during this difficult time. Sterling, located about 20 miles northwest of Arlington and less than 5 miles north of the Washington Dulles International Airport, experienced this devastating incident which has left the surrounding area in shock and mourning.