As the federal government investigates a home explosion in Bel Air, state officials on Monday released the identities of the two victims.
The victims of the explosion are Ray Corkran Jr., the 73-year-old homeowner, and Jose Rodriguez-Alvarado, a 35-year-old contracted employee at Baltimore Gas and Electric, according to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating what it called a natural gas explosion at the home in Bel Air on Sunday, according to a post on social media from the agency.
The NTSB regularly investigates incidents involving pipelines. In an email, an NTSB representative said investigators are conducting initial examinations of the pipeline and are expected to be at the scene for about a week.
Besides gathering witness statements and available surveillance video, investigators will also look into relevant data — such as performance data, operator qualification, training and pipeline maintenance records — and the pipeline’s safety management system plans and operating practices and procedures.
The BGE contractor was called out to the home in the 2300 block of Arthurs Woods Drive for a reported gas leak. While officials were on the way to the site, they were notified a home had exploded.
At least 12 families were displaced, and Harford County officials are still working to determine the total number of damaged structures.
Crews have started cleaning up the “copious debris” that was strewn about the neighborhood, the Maryland State Fire Marshal said, and restoration companies are starting repair work on nearby homes.
The state fire marshals and ATF agents are done investigating on scene, officials said Monday. Investigators are focused now on reviewing evidence and data collected Sunday, including physical items like piping, and other evidence, like witness interviews and data from BGE, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal.
“Our hearts are broken for the two victims and their families. Our team of highly qualified investigators and our partners at ATF are dedicated to providing an answer that will lead to safer communities,” Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray said in a statement.
Officials said there is no evidence of criminal activity and the investigation is focused on accidental causes.
