Sterling, Virginia – An investigation has concluded regarding the response to a gas leak that resulted in a devastating house explosion in Sterling, Virginia last year. The investigation highlighted both successful actions and areas for improvement in the emergency response. Firefighters initially responded to a home on Silver Ridge Drive on reports of a gas leak. The homeowners had recently filled their underground propane tank with gas.
The Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System’s report revealed that fire crews missed critical signs, such as the smell of flammable gas upon arrival and propane in storm drains. Furthermore, there were concerns about the integrity of the tank expressed by the gas company that serviced it. These signs should have prompted a pause in the operation until hazmat teams arrived and a larger safe zone was established around the home.
Tragically, the explosion occurred moments after the home’s occupants were evacuated and moved to their personal vehicles. The explosion resulted in several firefighters being trapped inside, with three of them becoming incapacitated. One firefighter, Trevor Brown from the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company, lost his life in the blast, while several others sustained serious injuries.
The report also highlighted communication challenges, including delays in relaying critical information and confusion over mayday calls from trapped firefighters. Recommendations were made for more training on responding to gas leak calls, adjusting positioning and strategy based on gas concentrations, and improving radio transmission practices.
Additionally, the report addressed delays in connecting with a fire hydrant, the need to move the fire truck outside of the hazard zone once gas was detected, and enhancing the department’s command structure during similar emergency responses. The report praised the bravery and quick response of all those involved, as well as the positive outcomes resulting from the actions taken in response to the mayday calls.
Despite the report not determining the cause of the fire that led to the blast, a former worker with Southern States Cooperative, Inc. who filled the tank earlier that day is facing criminal charges in connection with the explosion. The report also acknowledged the support provided by Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, as well as the technical units from both Loudoun and Fairfax counties who assisted in rescuing the trapped firefighters.
Overall, the report emphasized the importance of continuous improvement in emergency response procedures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The investigation’s findings serve as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by first responders in ensuring public safety during such incidents.
