Explosion, 2-alarm fire prompts evacuations at senior living facility in Prince George’s County
BOWIE, Md. - An early morning explosion in the kitchen area of a senior living facility in Prince George's County sparked a two-alarm fire that forced over 100 residents to evacuate early Tuesday morning.
According to FOX 5's Maureen Umeh, the fire was reported around 4 a.m. at the Larkin Chase Center in the 15000 block of Health Center Drive in the Bowie area.
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Umeh said fire officials confirmed the explosion and said the blast was reportedly felt miles away. Images from the scene show extensive damage to the kitchen area. Bricks and building materials could be seen scattered across the ground as emergency crews responded.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services Spokesperson Pete Piringer says 112 residents will be relocated because of the fire. Piringer says family of relocated residents should gather at the Bowie Senior Center at 14900 Health Center Drive.
For residents looking for more information on the status of their loved ones impacted by this incident, the City of Bowie has established a line to call: 301-262-6200
Originally one person was reported to have been transported for evaluation, but officials now say no one was hospitalized.
The cause of the explosion is under investigation.
Health Center Drive, the Bowie Senior Center and Bowie Gymnasium are closed until further notice.