Explosion at a building in Gaithersburg, Maryland, at least 12 people injured

A portion of at least one residential building in Gaithersburg, Maryland was demolished after an explosion and two-alarm fire at 8:30 am on Wednesday morning. 

At least 11 people were injured in the explosion, which includes two adults and four children. Many of them have traumatic injuries and have been taken to the hospital. 

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Multiple calls were made to Montgomery County Fire & Rescue reporting the explosion and fire, which released smoke into the atmosphere that could be seen for miles. At the explosion’s location was the Potomac Oaks Condominium in the 800 block of Quince Orchard Boulevard near Rabbit Road.

At least 100 firefighters arrived on the spot to handle the situation. Along with the American Red Cross, Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security are also present at the scene.

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“The building has sustained a significant explosion resulting in a structural collapse,” Montgomery County Fire Chief Scott Goldstein. 

Here’s a video of the fire shared by Megan Rivers, a reporter with WUSA 9. 

Montgomery County council member Nancy Navarro put out a brief statement on Twitter saying that the cause of the incident is under investigation. She said that along with injuries, several families living in the building were displaced. 

“Briefing regarding a residential explosion in Gaithersburg. There are injuries and displaced families. The cause in under investigation. Grateful to the brave @mcfrs responders and praying for the residents affected by this horrible event.”

The latest updates from the spot say that the fire is now under control. The firefighters are now working on a few hot spots. 

This is a developing story and more details will be added.