Mystery Blast Rocks DC Suburb, Injures 30

At least 3 firefighters among the injured
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Aug 11, 2016 6:57 AM CDT

Fire officials say at least 30 people, including at least three firefighters, have been injured in an explosion and fire at an apartment building in a Maryland suburb of Washington, DC, reports the AP. First responders were dispatched to the scene in Silver Spring just before midnight Wednesday after a blast was felt a mile away, reports NBC Washington. The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service said early Thursday that the fire was believed to be under control.

Capt. Oscar Garcia says the wounded firefighters are believed to have injuries that are not life-threatening. The extent of the others' injuries wasn't immediately known. Garcia says not everyone is yet accounted for. Fire Chief Scott Goldstein says up to seven people are still missing. The fire involved at least two or three buildings. The department tweeted photos that showed a building at least partially collapsed and rubble strewn on the street in front of it. One resident suspects a gas leak is responsible. (More Maryland stories.)

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