Updated Information on the Cause of the Fire and Explosion at Friendly Garden Apartments; Incident Being Classified as Accidental

Below are notes from today’s 3PM press conference with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Cheif Scott Goldstein.

  • A 1 ½ inch pipe was found cut in the basement of the apartment building. A building maintenance person was working on a clogged drain in apartment #101 and was using a “snake” tool to remove debris. The maintenance worker cut what he believed to be a drain pipe in the lower level of the building to remove the clog.  When the worker went back upstairs to #101, a flash fire occurred. The maintenance worked attended to the resident, who had been injured, and as they were leaving the building the significant explosion occurred. They were in the building’s stairwell at time.
  • Event is being classified as accidental.
  • They will not be able to determine the exact source or point of ignition.
  • No additional K9 alerts since Friday. A glove was located that they believe was the source of a K9 alert for human remains.
  • Fourteen injuries total from the event.
  • As of this morning, 12 have been discharged. Two remain hospitalized, one in critical condition, and one from an unrelated medical issue.
  • Montgomery County agencies will be turning the property back over to property management soon and MCFRS will no longer be on the site.
  • All people remain accounted for, nobody concerned to be missing. No victims were located on the interior or exterior of the building.
  • REMINDER: If you smell gas, immediately exit structure and dial 9-11.

You can view the full press conference below:

 

 

Recent Stories

Chief Antonio DeVaul from the Takoma Park Police Department has announced the arrest of Antonio Thompson, 29, of no fixed address, for stolen auto, theft from auto and 1st degree…

A Rottweiler puppy has been reunited with its owner after a good samaritan found the dog in a dumpster near her Silver Spring apartment on Thursday morning.

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation has announced that beginning Friday, March 29, Ride On Route 76 (Shady Grove/Poolesville) will no longer serve The Crossvines Golf Course as a termination point…

According to Montgomery County Police, the coyote that attacked two people on Thursday, March 28, was located along a trail near Dustin Rd in Burtonsville. It was shot and killed…

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

×

Subscribe to our mailing list