A massive explosion involving hundreds of pounds of fireworks destroyed several homes and injured five people, including three firefighters, on Whidbey Island, Washington, this week. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon in the Lagoon Point neighborhood.
Central Whidbey Island Fire & Rescue Chief Jerry Helm stated that the explosion was likely caused by someone smoking near the stored fireworks at a residence. "They’re kind of like a little ticking time bomb, and you’re not sure when they’re going to go off," Helm said.
The three injured firefighters responded to a house fire call before the subsequent large explosion, according to the Island County Sheriff’s Office. Two of the firefighters are recovering at home, and the third is expected to be released from the hospital soon. Two civilians also sought medical attention on their own before first responders could assess them.
The blast destroyed one home and a neighboring house that caught fire, while a third residence sustained damage. Tanya Hernandez-Garzon, a resident whose home was destroyed, described the event as fireworks "exploding and shooting everywhere." She managed to evacuate her pets from her home before fleeing.
The Island County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating the incident. Authorities will determine if criminal charges are warranted following the investigation.