Explosion Wilmington NC: Gas Line Rupture Causes Fire, Injures Firefighters, Driver Arrested

Emergency response teams in Wilmington, North Carolina, are currently addressing the aftermath of a significant explosion that occurred on New Centre Drive. The incident took place when a vehicle struck and ruptured a gas line at the site of the Eastern Carolina Veterinary Medical Center, scheduled to open in September. Reports indicate that the explosion resulted in extensive damage to the building.

Authorities responded swiftly following the explosion, which ignited a fire that required immediate attention. The Wilmington Fire Department deployed units to the scene, where three firefighters sustained injuries during firefighting efforts. Two firefighters received minor injuries, while one suffered severe burns to their hands.

The dramatic series of events began when a driver, reportedly impaired, veered off the road while turning onto New Centre Drive from Bob King Drive, colliding with the gas line. The driver fled the scene but was quickly apprehended by law enforcement. The Wilmington Police Department has yet to announce any charges, and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol is conducting an investigation into the crash.

As a precaution, officials have closed most of New Centre Drive to traffic, urging residents and bystanders to avoid the area to ensure the safety of both the public and emergency personnel working under challenging conditions. Emergency responders continue operations to secure the site and facilitate the safe reopening of the surrounding area.

The explosion, heard across large parts of Wilmington, sent debris scattering over a broad area, with nearby businesses reportedly affected. Despite the scale of the incident, there were no civilians inside the veterinary center at the time of the explosion, minimizing potential casualties.

This devastating event has attracted significant attention, with reports of the blast echoing as far as the University of North Carolina Wilmington's campus and other nearby neighborhoods. Emergency management and response teams are collaborating efficiently to handle the situation, reiterating the commitment to public safety.

As this is an ongoing investigation, updates will follow as more information becomes available, detailing any developments relating to the incident and its subsequent impact on the community.