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The second-alarm fire broke out at a four-story home at the Friendly Garden Apartments on Lyttonsville Road. The fire was first reported around 10:30 a.m., according to Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich.
"Montgomery County Fire and Rescue (MCFRS) promptly responded and worked to both contain the fire and assist residents," he said.
Three out of the ten people were hospitalized with serious injuries and the remaining seven were said to have "less severe injuries." The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services is now working to help the residents who were displaced by the fire.
Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services is working in coordination with county and state partners as well as the Red Cross to coordinate assistance to residents who have been affected by this event.
MCFRS Spokesperson Pete Piringer said the fire was explosive in nature and originated on the first floor. He added crews battled "heavy conditions" and a "structural collapse."
While Piringer said the blaze had almost completely been contained before noon, crews continued to look for small pockets of fire and check surrounding buildings for any signs of a spread.
During a press conference, Chief Scott Goldstein said it was too early to identify what exactly caused the fire but did say there was significant structural damage to the building in which it broke out. Elrich said crews were still trying to figure out what happened later in the afternoon.
“Council members are keeping the residents of the Friendly Garden Apartments and the neighboring community members in our thoughts and prayers after today’s horrific explosion, fire and building collapse," the Montgomery County Council said in statement. “The Council also stands ready to assist survivors, family members and neighbors by doing everything in our power to provide support during the recovery and rebuilding process."
To help residents that have been displaced because of the fire, Montgomery County is asking the public to make to Montgomery Housing Partners. Click here to donate.
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