Victor Cascella, 62, of Gaithersburg has died from injuries sustained after crashing his car into two Gaithersburg townhomes on August 29. According to Montgomery County Police, “the investigation by detectives has revealed that the driver of a 2016 white BMW was traveling southbound on Orchard Ridge Dr. when, for reasons unknown at this time, crossed over the center median, left the roadway and crashed into the townhome residences of 432 and 434 Orchard Ridge Dr. The BMW and building engulfed in flames damaging both residences as well as 430 and 428 Orchard Ridge Dr.” Investigators believe the man was suffering from a medical emergency at the time of the crash.
According to Chief Spokesperson for Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Services Pete Piringer, Fire/Explosive Investigators believe that the fire began in the vehicle’s engine compartment before spreading to house. The inhabitants of the homes were temporarily trapped upstairs, but rescue units were able to get them out with ladders. Six adults have been displaced and damages are estimated to be $400,000.
Update – Orchard Ridge Dr; based on origin & cause examination, @mcfrs Fire/Explosive Investigators believe fire began in engine compartment before spreading into vehicle passenger area & then to house; 1 adult (driver) injured; 6 adults displaced; 2 people rescued; Damage $400K https://t.co/GkZO2VmUGC pic.twitter.com/X3lgGiroDj
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) August 30, 2022