A massive explosion in Wilmington, North Carolina, shook a quiet neighborhood on Thursday morning, leaving four firefighters injured and a community in shock.
Authorities say the blast occurred after a driver crashed his vehicle into a veterinary clinic, striking a gas line and triggering the devastating fire.
The dramatic scene unfolded within minutes. Video footage captured debris flying through the air, flames roaring, and thick plumes of black smoke blanketing the sky.
Pieces of the building were strewn across the street as emergency crews rushed to contain the inferno. One witness described the impact, saying, “I felt it more than I heard it. I saw this big plume of black smoke sort of right next door.”
Police identified the suspect as 46-year-old Jason Lee Beach, who they allege fled the scene after the crash. He was apprehended shortly after and is now facing multiple charges, including driving while intoxicated, hit-and-run, and drug-related offenses.
Fire officials said the incident escalated with alarming speed. “This rapidly went from a car accident with a gas leak to an explosion to a three-alarm commercial fire – all in a matter of minutes,” a fire chief noted.
Fortunately, the veterinary clinic was empty at the time, sparing the lives of staff and animals who might have otherwise been inside.
Four firefighters were taken to the hospital following the blast. One sustained severe burns to his hands, while three others suffered less serious injuries.
Officials stressed that while the outcome was tragic, the situation could have been far worse given the size of the explosion and the populated area nearby.
Residents remain shaken as investigators continue to assess the damage and ensure the area is safe. Authorities emphasized that the quick response of emergency teams helped prevent a much larger disaster.
The suspect remains in custody as the community rallies behind its injured firefighters. For many in Wilmington, the event serves as a chilling reminder of how quickly ordinary mornings can turn catastrophic.