WASHINGTON — A gas explosion destroyed a convenience store and injured one person in historic Anacostia on Thursday morning, DC Fire and EMS said.
The explosion happened in the 1200 block of Marion Barry Avenue, Southeast just before 10 a.m. The building collapsed in the explosion, and two other buildings were damaged, including a day care business next door.
Sixteen children inside the day care center were safely evacuated and reunited with their families.
The 911 call was received at 9:31 a.m. and firefighters arrived within three minutes, according to Fire Chief John Donnelly. Crews immediately began evacuating buildings due to an active gas leak. Donnelly said it was not a leak that could be controlled by first responders, so they contacted Washington Gas.
Gas explosion levels building in Southeast DC
"We believe the gas leak happened after a vehicle struck the gas meter," Donnelly said.
Twenty-five minutes after the 911 call was placed, there was an explosion. A second explosion occurred at the convenience store, knocking the building down altogether.
The store that was destroyed was the Dan Akil Convenience Store. Google lists the store as permanently closed.
One person was injured by flying debris from the explosion, and they are expected to recover from their injuries.
Donnelly said the fire was contained, but the gas had not yet been shut off. Active flames could still be seen in the building during WUSA9's live shots from the scene at noon. By 2:30 p.m. the fire had been completely extinguished. Donnelly said there is no risk of additional explosions.
"We're very grateful that we believe everyone is safe," DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said. "I think we're very lucky today...When I saw the building, my mouth fell open."
Donnelly credited Lt. Ryan Bolton's quick thinking to evacuate the adjacent buildings with saving lives.
"Gas was very noticeable," Bolton said of his first impressions at the scene. "You could hear it leaking and smell it. I've never dealt with anything like this."
When parents were reunited with their toddlers after the explosion, you could see the relief and happiness on their faces.
"I'm just glad. I was so worried. I was scared, I was anxious, but I am just glad, you know, all the kids was able to make it out safe." Maya said after picking up her son who was at the Baby Einstein Child.
Shae, another mother, sang her praises to the employees of the daycare for their quick responses and neighbors who took the children in until parents could arrive.
"I am just thankful, thank you to the workers, thank you for all them for getting them out of there. Thank you to DC Smoke House for allowing them to come over there and get away from the fire...I was scared. I dropped everything and just had to get over here." said Shae.
DC Police said the following roads closed due to the explosion:
- Marion Barry Ave, SE between MLK Jr Ave, SE, and 14th Street, SE
- MLK Jr Ave, SE between W Street and 11th Street, SE.
- 14th and V Street, SE (Eastbound)
- Eastbound 11th Street Bridge at O Street, SE
- MLK Jr Ave, SE between Morris RD SE and 11th Street, SE.
- Marion Barry Ave, SE between Minnesota Ave, SE and MLK Jr Ave SE
- 14th St between Marion Barry Ave, SE, and W Street, SE.
- 13th St between Marion Barry Ave, SE, and W Street, SE
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