STERLING, Va. – A detailed report released Tuesday sheds light on the devastating February 16, 2024, house explosion in Sterling that killed Firefighter Trevor Brown and injured 13 others, including 10 first responders. 

Sterling house explosion Significant Incident Report

What we know:

The 211-page report, compiled by Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services in Maryland, highlights critical areas for improvement in emergency response while honoring the heroic efforts that day.

The Significant Incident Report, requested by the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System (LC-CFRS), identifies several challenges that contributed to the tragedy, including inadequate risk assessment, delays in communication, resource allocation issues, and difficulties in coordinating a complex and rapidly escalating situation.

“The need for continuous improvement in emergency response protocols, training, and communication strategies is critical to mitigating risks and enhancing safety for responders,” the report states.

Despite the challenges, the report also highlights strengths that contributed to saving lives, including advanced training in firefighter rescue operations, technical rescue expertise, and the swift coordination of behavioral health support for responders.

LC-CFRS Chief Keith Johnson emphasized that the recommendations from the report, which include 51 objectives and more than 80 action items, will guide improvements in training, communication, and risk assessment.

When did the Sterling house explosion happen?

The backstory:

The explosion occurred on Silver Ridge Drive after Loudoun County firefighters responded to a reported gas leak at the residence. 

Investigators later determined an underground propane tank was leaking, prompting firefighters to request a hazardous materials team and evacuate the home’s occupants. Within an hour, the home exploded, leveling the structure, trapping several firefighters, and sending debris flying.

Brown, a dedicated Sterling volunteer firefighter, died in the line of duty. Two firefighters were rescued from the home’s burning basement, and 10 others sustained significant injuries. Two civilians suffered minor injuries.

What’s next:

The explosion has led to criminal charges against Roger Bentley, a 67-year-old technician for Southern States Cooperative. Prosecutors allege Bentley assessed the propane leak and improperly advised residents to “let it seep out and be on their merry way.” 

Bentley faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and other offenses related to the explosion.