A large explosion and fire at a Maryland apartment complex Thursday morning resulted in the hospitalization of at least 11 people and the displacement of more than 100 residents, according to authorities.
Montgomery County Fire Department spokesman Pete Piringer told the Washington Examiner that at least five of the tenants were seriously injured in the explosion. MCFD Chief Scott Goldstein said crews are searching for missing residents.
“We do have several unaccounted for,” Goldstein said in an afternoon press conference. “I do not have a number to provide you at this point. We are working with all of our law enforcement agencies, the property managers, and all of the occupants to be able to refine that.”
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) March 3, 2022
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Footage of the explosion reported by NBC4 shows a portion of the apartment complex explode followed by clouds of gray smoke. People can be heard screaming in the aftermath of the blast.
The fire department has not received any calls this year regarding gas leaks at the complex, Goldstein said. Three of the buildings in the Silver Spring complex have been declared “unsafe to occupy” after inspection, he added.
WATCH: Video shows the moment an explosion and a fire erupted at an apartment complex in Silver Spring. https://t.co/E2ntqgJ3zz pic.twitter.com/NGILDQ8WwX
— NBC4 Washington (@nbcwashington) March 3, 2022
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said on social media that his team has been in contact with Montgomery County officials and that state fire, emergency, and police departments “have offered their full assistance in response to this fire and explosion.” A donation page to help the residents affected by the fire and explosion was announced by the county on social media Thursday afternoon.
Our team has been in contact with Montgomery County officials and @MarylandOSFM, @MDMEMA, and @MDSP have offered their full assistance in response to this fire and explosion in Silver Spring.
Please keep all those involved, including our first responders, in your prayers. https://t.co/lEYIXYXI3T
— Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) March 3, 2022
A donation page has been set up to help the residents impacted by the fire and explosion that devastated the Friendly Garden Apartments in Silver Spring. This incident caused serious injuries and displaced residents. For how to donate ➡️ https://t.co/ol9HNENihV. pic.twitter.com/KaQBYz6NUp
— Montgomery County MD (@MontgomeryCoMD) March 3, 2022
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Officials are expected to provide an update Friday morning, according to the county.
