Firefighter injured in Sterling house explosion returns to duty

LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. - A Virginia firefighter has returned to duty after recovering from injuries she sustained in the catastrophic home explosion in Sterling that claimed the life of fellow firefighter Trevor Brown, and injured several others.

Loudoun County Fire and Rescue shared the update Friday on social media, writing: "Today’s a very special day for our Fire and Rescue family! After an extensive recovery, Firefighter Allison Orlowski has returned to the field and rejoined her crew, assigned to Engine 611. Please join us in welcoming back Firefighter Orlowski!"

The February explosion occurred when firefighters responded to reports of a propane smell at 347 Silver Ridge Drive. Less than an hour after their arrival, the house exploded, killing Brown and injuring several crew members, including Orlowski.

The Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office later determined a leak in a 500-gallon underground propane tank caused the explosion. The leaking propane seeped into and around the home, where it was ignited. 

Eight months later, a grand jury indicted Roger Bentley, 67, a former petroleum company employee, on charges of involuntary manslaughter and other offenses related to improper handling and record-keeping of petroleum.

Orlowski’s return marks a poignant milestone for Loudoun County Fire and Rescue, which continues to heal from the tragedy.