LELAND, N.C. (WNCN) — One person was rescued and two people were injured when a townhome exploded at the North Carolina coast early Friday night, officials said.
The blast, which blew the home’s garage door off to a townhouse across the street, was reported around 7:35 p.m. at a one-level townhome in the 1300 block of Suncrest Way in the Magnolia Greens neighborhood of Leland in Brunswick County, according to the Leland Fire/Rescue Department.
The blast appeared to rip a hole through the entire townhome — blowing out the front and back of the building. Crews rescued one person from the rubble of the home, which sustained major damage with roofing torn away and beams exposed.
The explosion, which caused “significant damage” to four homes, did not appear to spark a fire.
Two people were injured but did not require hospitalization, Leland officials said.
One man in the home at the time of the explosion told WECT about the blast.
“I heard this really loud ‘bang.’ It was a really loud bang, and everything just kinda came in on you,” Nathan White told the TV station.
Debris from the explosion was on the roofs of homes nearby and some other windows were blown out.
In the hours after the explosion, inspectors checked about 70 homes in the Three Oaks section of Magnolia Greens.
Four homes were deemed unsafe because of structural damage, Leland town officials said Saturday.
“Most damage outside the immediate impact area is minor and primarily limited to drywall and other non-structural elements, making them safe for residents to enter,” Leland officials said.
Fences will be installed to secure the area as the investigation continues, the town of Leland said. Residents are encouraged to stay out of the area.
“The Red Cross is assisting displaced residents and the investigation is ongoing,” fire officials said.
The Town is working with Three Oaks residents to plan a community meeting during which officials will provide updates and answer questions from those affected.
N.W. Fire/Rescue Department and Winnabow Volunteer Fire Department assisted Leland Fire in the call.
Source: Fox 8 News Channel