(DailyChive.com) – A pall of grief hangs over Northern Virginia as officials have finally identified the individual who died in the explosion that rocked the community. Trevor Brown, a 45-year-old dedicated volunteer firefighter, was the sole fatality in the incident that left 14 others injured, including 11 first responders.
During a press conference, Chief Keith Johnson of Loudoun County Fire stated that Trevor was indeed a family member they had lost. He emphasized that they had lost someone special regardless of whether it was a career or volunteer position.
Brown, who served with the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company, is a beloved husband and father of three and has been with the department since 2016. Chief Johnson expressed his condolences and assured the community that the department would work closely with Brown’s family to honor his memory.
The tragedy occurred on Friday, February 16, when firefighters responded to reports of a gas leak at a residence in Sterling. The situation quickly escalated, with the house erupting in a massive explosion just moments after firefighters arrived.
Chief Johnson reported that fourteen people had been injured and emphasized the miraculous nature of the outcome, mentioning that people were inside the house when it exploded.
The explosion left the home in ruins, with photos and videos depicting scenes of utter devastation. Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky while debris scattered across the neighborhood.
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Assistant Chief of Operations James Williams described the scene as “total devastation.” He noted a debris field extending into the street and neighborhood, emphasizing the significant physical and emotional toll on the brave heroes of the fire department.
Four individuals, including firefighters, remain hospitalized with varying degrees of injuries. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, though officials suspect a propane leak.
The incident sent shockwaves through the community, with neighbors describing a terrifying scene of a loud boom, shaking houses, and billowing smoke.
One neighbor, Kyleigh Krishreck, reported that the environment suddenly became smoky, with debris falling from the sky. Another neighbor, John Padegett, recounted that the whole house shook due to the enormous explosion. He also mentioned having walked his dog earlier and smelling gas.
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