Drone video shows devastation after apparent house explosion
A homeowner and a contractor were killed in an apparent house explosion in Bel Air, Maryland.
A video shows the aftermath of a house explosion in Bel Air, Maryland, that killed two people on Sunday.
According to Harford County Fire and Emergency Services, the victims were identified as 73-year-old homeowner Ray Corkran Jr. and a Baltimore Gas and Electric Company contractor, 35-year-old Jose Rodriguez-Alvarado.
Emergency crews, including volunteer firefighters from the Abingdon Fire Company, arrived at the home in Bel Air, about 30 miles from Baltimore, around 6:40 a.m. They were initially called for an apparent house explosion.
Officials said the homeowner was rescued from the rubble. In addition to the fatalities, another person was reportedly injured.
Home Explosion: 1 dead and 1 injured after apparent house explosion in Maryland
No evidence of criminal activity, officials say
The video shows the rubble, smoke and fire after the deadly explosion that left at least twelve families homeless.
“The state’s deputy fire marshal and ATF agents have completed their on-site investigation and turned the scene over to insurance agents,” officials said Monday. “Emergency crews have already begun cleaning up the large amount of debris scattered throughout the neighborhood, and restoration contractors are beginning to repair surrounding homes.”
Officials plan to review all evidence collected at the scene, including gas and power lines. They said there is no evidence of criminal activity. The National Transportation Safety Board is also investigating the case.
Authorities are asking anyone who smelled gas in the area before the explosion to contact them.
In a statement Monday, the president of the Harford County Fire and EMS Association said, “We mourn with the families and friends who lost loved ones today. Words cannot describe what you must be going through, but know that we are with you.”
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected].
