A massive explosion of hundreds of pounds of fireworks rocked an island community in Western Washington this week, destroying several homes and injuring five people, including three firefighters.
The fire was likely caused by someone smoking too close to where stored fireworks were kept at a home in the Lagoon Point neighborhood, according to officials. The explosion was so powerful that it destroyed one house and damaged another, while a third home caught fire.
Three firefighters were injured in the explosion after they responded to a call of a house fire in the neighborhood Wednesday afternoon. Two of the firefighters are now recovering at home, while the third is expected to leave the hospital soon.
Two civilians took themselves to the hospital before first responders could evaluate them. The sheriff's office said it will determine after the investigation if any criminal charges are warranted.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is also investigating the cause of the explosion. A neighbor, who lost her home in the blast, expressed her concerns about the safety of fireworks and the impact on her community.
Tanya Hernandez-Garzon said she was able to save her five dogs and pet bird from the fire, but lost her home. She expressed her sadness and frustration at the situation, stating that the fireworks were "exploding and shooting everywhere."
Hernandez-Garzon slept in her truck that night, unsure of where she would go next. The community is coming together to support those affected by the explosion, as officials work to determine the cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.
