SEATTLE, June 27 (Walla Walla Times) — Federal investigators are examining a Whidbey Island explosion that destroyed two homes, damaged a third and injured five people after local officials said the fire likely started when someone smoked near stored fireworks.
The Island County Sheriff’s Office said the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating the blast, but no arrests or charges have been announced.
Central Whidbey Island Fire & Rescue Chief Jerry Helm said firefighters responded Wednesday afternoon to a house fire in the 3600 block of Smugglers Cove Road in the Greenbank area. Shortly after crews arrived, the home exploded.
Helm said the house held a large cache of fireworks, describing it as probably in the 700-pound range. He said investigators believe smoking materials may have fallen into the fireworks and set off the blast.
Five people were hurt, including three firefighters and two residents. Two of the firefighters were treated and released, while a third remained hospitalized and was expected to undergo hand surgery, officials said.
The two homeowners went to the hospital on their own and were expected to recover. Fire officials said the homeowners were cooperating with authorities.
