DARNESTOWN, Md. — Two people were rushed to the hospital and a third person was evaluated after an explosion at a home in Darnestown on Tuesday evening, Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service said. The explosion is said to have been caused by someone either manufacturing or modifying fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July holiday.
At 5:15 p.m., firefighters were called to the home located in the 14200 block of Cervantes Avenue for the report of smoke seen coming from the home.
At the scene, firefighters noticed smoke coming from the home and garage. They also found damage as a result of an explosion.
Investigators say most of the damage was found in the garage, but the cars in the driveway were also damaged and some windows were blown out. Officials say the damage was extensive enough to condemn the home.
First responders took two people to the hospital following the explosion at the home.
One was suffering from life-threatening injuries, and the other from serious but not life-threatening injuries.
Detectives say both people suffered a variety of traumatic injuries. Their current conditions are not known.
A third person was evaluated at the home but was not transported to the hospital for further care.
Investigators said there was no fire, just an explosion. The investigation is still ongoing.
Neighbors in the area said they were stunned by what happened.
"It's pretty shocking," one neighbor told WUSA9. "It's a big deal that it's on our street ... It's a pretty quiet street. Nothing happens here, so for this to occur is pretty surprising."
Montgomery County fire officials offer a reminder that all fireworks are illegal in the county. According to the fire department, each year, fireworks in the United States cause approximately twelve deaths, 2,000 serious eye injuries, and 5.000 other injuries, including amputated fingers.
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