The Loudoun County (VA) Fire and Rescue’s Fire Marshal’s Office has concluded its on-site investigation activities at 347 Silver Ridge Drive in Sterling. Preliminary findings during this ongoing origin and cause investigation have determined that the explosion on Friday, February 16, 2024, was a result of a leak involving a 500-gallon underground propane tank; uncontained propane migrated into and around the structure and was ignited by an unknown ignition source.
This is an extremely complex investigation, and the incident will remain under Investigation until further notice. The official cause classification will be communicated when the investigation is complete.
As a result of the explosion, 14 people were injured, including one fatality, identified as Sterling Volunteer Firefighter Trevor Brown of the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company. Currently only one firefighter remains hospitalized, in stable condition, at the Burn Center at MedStar Washington Hospital Center.
Property damage from the explosion extended to at least six additional residential structures. In addition to the dwelling at 347 Silver Ridge Drive, three additional structures were evaluated and determined to be unsafe for continued occupancy. Initial damages are estimated at approximately $2.5 million.
More information can be found here.
Celebration of Life for Fallen Firefighter Brown
The agency also announced that a Celebration of Life for fallen Firefighter Trevor Brown will be held at Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, Virginia, on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 11 a.m.. The ceremony can be viewed via live stream https://bit.ly/ServiceFFBrown
