According to Scott Goldstein, Montgomery County Fire Chief, three victims are receiving treatment for severe injuries and seven others are in a range of mild to moderate conditions.
Officials said that a fire was reported at Silver Spring’s Friendly Garden Apartments around 10:30 AM. Firefighters were able pull several people out of the building after arriving on the scene. The fire was declared “completely consumed by fire” by firefighters, according to CBS Baltimore.
Goldstein stated that an unspecified number are still missing. Another 100 people were also affected by the blast.
Goldstein stated that three of six buildings in the complex have been declared unsafe to reoccupy by fire engineers. Once it is safe, residents will be allowed back to pick up their belongings.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services public information officer Pete Piringer said that security fencing was installed around the perimeter on Thursday night. Operations will resume Friday morning.
According to Marc Elrich , a Montgomery County Executive, an investigation is ongoing into the incident. Fire officials stated that they would provide updates as soon as they are available. He stated that the county offered temporary housing and mental health support to residents who were displaced.
Elrich stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who were affected by this terrible and tragic event.”
Montgomery County Council extended condolences for those who were affected by the incident.
“Councilmembers are keeping residents of Friendly Garden Apartments, and neighboring community members, in our thoughts and prayers following today’s horrendous explosions, fires and building collapses,” the council stated in a joint declaration Thursday. The Council is ready to help survivors, their families and neighbours by providing support throughout the rebuilding and recovery process.
