SEATTLE, June 27 (Walla Walla Times) — Federal agents are investigating a fireworks explosion on Whidbey Island that destroyed two homes, damaged a third and injured five people, including three firefighters, Island County officials said.
Central Whidbey Island Fire & Rescue responded Wednesday afternoon to a house fire in the 3600 block of Smugglers Cove Road in Greenbank. Shortly after firefighters arrived, the home exploded, according to fire officials.
Island County Sheriff’s Office officials said the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating. No arrest or charges have been announced.
Chief Jerry Helm of Central Whidbey Island Fire & Rescue said investigators believed the blaze was likely started when someone was smoking too close to stored fireworks. Helm said the home contained roughly 700 pounds of fireworks.
Helm said two firefighters were treated and released, while a third remained hospitalized and was expected to have hand surgery. Two homeowners also went to the hospital on their own and were expected to recover, and officials said the homeowners were cooperating with authorities.
