NTSB Launches Investigation Into Silver Spring Apartment Explosion

SILVER SPRING, Md. (WJZ) -- All seven victims in the Silver Spring explosion are now accounted for, while the intense investigation into the deadly blast that destroyed an apartment building kicks into high gear.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the explosion at the apartment complex. Investigators have been on scene since last week. Seven bodies have since been recovered from the rubble. Police believe, unfortunately, some of those may belong to people still reported missing.

Recovery and rescue efforts continue in Silver Spring. A week later, the rubble and debris is as prominent as ever in the deadly fire and explosion that shook the community's foundation and core.

One mother tells WJZ she attempted to help another mother escape as the fire began to take its toll on the building, but it was too late.

The cause of the explosion has not been released, nor have the identities of the victims. Many residents suspect a gas leak is to blame.

"We were always complaining, but they never take it really seriously," one resident said.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is now in the process of narrowing down the official source.

As big as the losses are for many, those deeply rooted in the community say hope is what's getting many through the tragedy.

Casa de Maryland is currently helping dozens of displaced families get back on their feet thanks to donations from the public.

"It has been overwhelming. This situation here has moved an entire community," one worker said.

The Red Cross is also set up, helping victims cope with this latest loss.

"Always a wide range of emotions and always goes up and down until folks get to what's a new normal," another worker said.

The recovered bodies are now at the Medical Examiner's Office in Baltimore.

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