A house explosion in Bel Air, Maryland, resulted in one death and multiple injuries, including a utility worker, after a suspected gas leak, leaving the scene described as a 'debris field,' officials reported.

The explosion, which occurred about 30 miles northeast of Baltimore, prompted a large multi-agency response and is currently under investigation by local authorities and federal agencies, including the Harford County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The house, which was listed for sale, suffered extensive damage along with neighboring properties. Utility workers from Baltimore Gas and Electric Company were on-site addressing a reported gas leak when the blast happened, creating a critical incident that shook the community and left debris scattered across the area. Although officials have ruled out any ongoing public threat, the exact cause of the explosion remains uncertain as searches through the wreckage continue.

Emergency services were initially called to the scene to investigate a reported gas leak. Upon their arrival, the situation escalated quickly when an explosion occurred, devastating the house and turning it into a scene described by fire officials as a 'debris field.' The explosion was so powerful that neighboring structures, including a nearby house, were also affected.

The blast resulted in the death of one individual, whose identity has yet to be disclosed pending notification of next of kin. Additionally, multiple people were injured. One of the injured persons was identified as a utility worker from Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) who was on-site to address the gas leak. Another injured individual declined to be transported to the hospital.

Approximately 60 personnel from various fire and emergency service agencies responded to the incident. This included local fire departments and other emergency responders, who were met with a chaotic scene upon their arrival. Authorities took measures to ensure the safety and security of the area while conducting rescue operations and gathering evidence.

Because the house was listed for sale, it is unclear if there were any occupants inside at the time of the explosion. Crews are using aircraft to sift through the debris for any potential victims or evidence, while recreational drone usage has been prohibited to avoid interfering with the investigation.

Eyewitness accounts from nearby residents describe the intensity of the explosion. One local resident reported that the blast was strong enough to shake their building, initially making them think it was a major earthquake or bomb. The immediate aftermath saw a flurry of emergency activity as responders secured the area and assessed the damage.

Utility workers from BGE were on-site at the time to address an odor of gas that was reported prior to the explosion. Investigators are currently looking into whether this reported gas leak could be linked to the cause of the explosion. However, the exact cause has yet to be determined, and an investigation is ongoing.

Despite the severity of the explosion, officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to public safety from this incident. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are leading the investigation to determine the cause and collect evidence from the site.

In addition to the primary residence, the blast affected multiple structures in the vicinity. The explosion's impact area includes at least one neighboring house, contributing to the substantial debris field that responders are now meticulously combing through for any additional clues or risks.

Authorities are urging locals to avoid the area to facilitate smooth rescue and investigation operations. By keeping the area clear, emergency personnel can work efficiently without additional complications or hazards.

As the investigation continues, the community of Bel Air is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic incident. Residents are awaiting more information on the cause of the explosion while also mourning the loss of a neighbor and considering the harrowing impact on those injured and affected by the blast.