At least one person has tragically died and two individuals have been injured following a devastating house explosion in Bel Air, Maryland on Sunday. Fire officials suspect a possible gas leak as the cause of the explosion, which caused significant damage to neighboring houses in the area.

The explosion occurred in the early morning hours, with residents in the vicinity reporting feeling and hearing a powerful blast. Firefighters were initially called to the scene around 6:40 a.m. after receiving reports of a gas leak and an outdoor odor of gas. However, as they were approaching the scene, multiple calls came in indicating that the house had already exploded.

Authorities pronounced one victim dead on the scene, while a woman in a neighboring house, which was heavily damaged, was treated for injuries at the site. Additionally, one utility worker present during the incident was also injured. There were two utility workers in the area to address an electrical issue, but it is yet to be determined if their work was connected to the explosion.

Investigations are currently underway to assess the extent of damage to surrounding houses and determine the blast radius. Firefighters continue to search through the debris for any potential additional victims. It has been assured that there is no ongoing threat to the safety of the public.

Oliver Alkire, a master deputy with the State Fire Marshal's Office, expressed the magnitude of the explosion, stating that it is one of the largest he has witnessed during his nearly 18-year career. The damage caused to nearby homes will be documented as part of the investigation.

Photos shared by county officials revealed the aftermath of the explosion, with firefighters surrounding the wreckage of the destroyed home, along with another neighboring house that suffered significant damage. Debris, charred wood, and insulation were scattered around the property, while remnants hung from nearby trees.

The house that exploded was reportedly up for sale, although it remains uncertain if it was currently occupied. Over 60 first responders from various agencies swiftly arrived at the scene to provide assistance. In accordance with standard procedure, the state fire marshal, sheriff, and federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) are collaborating on the investigation.

Witnesses, such as Lisa Czawlytko, who lives nearby, described the intensity of the explosion, which not only startled residents but also caused structural damage to nearby condominium buildings. Residents affected by the blast attended a news conference seeking clarity on the safety of their living spaces, recounting the forceful impact of the incident.

Greg Clifford, a resident in a townhouse close to the explosion, recounted being awakened by the blast, initially mistaking it for a fallen tree or lightning strike. He noted damage to his home, including a window pulled away from the framing and a cracked basement door.

As the investigation into the cause of the explosion continues, the community remains shaken by the tragic event, with support being offered to those affected by a tight-knit network of emergency services and officials on the ground.