UPDATE: May 20, 7:30 p.m.
The investigation into the cause and origin of the explosion on Suncrest Way in Magnolia Greens remains ongoing. Investigators with Leland Fire/Rescue say determining the exact cause could take several weeks. The Town is working with insurance providers and other partners to support the investigation once it is safe to proceed.
On Tuesday evening, the Town held a community meeting for impacted residents of the Three Oaks area to provide updates from officials involved in the investigation and damage assessments.
Affected residents are encouraged to direct any questions to Emergency Management Chief John Grimes via email at jgrimes@townofleland.com or (910) 250-6012.
UPDATE: May 17, 2:30 p.m.
Damage assessments are ongoing following an explosion in the 1300 block of Suncrest Way in Magnolia Greens Friday evening. The explosion, which originated from a townhouse unit, caused significant damage to at least four residential units. One person was rescued from the home. That individual and one other sustained injuries that did not require hospitalization.
Town of Leland Building Inspectors, Police, Emergency Management, and Leland Fire/Rescue crews remain on scene today, with the top priorities being property safety and structural evaluations. Inspectors assessed approximately 70 units in the Three Oaks section of Magnolia Greens. Four homes have been deemed unsafe to occupy due to structural damage. Most damage outside the immediate impact area is minor and primarily limited to drywall and other non-structural elements, making them safe for residents to enter.
The initial sweep of the subdivision is now complete. Fencing will be installed to secure the affected area as the investigation continues. Residents are encouraged to stay out of the area. The Town is coordinating with Duke Energy to restore power to two units found safe for occupancy.
While the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation, the Town will work with insurance providers and other partners to determine the cause once it is safe to do so.
The Town is working with Three Oaks residents to plan a community meeting during which officials will provide updates and answer questions from those affected.
The investigation is active and may take time to complete. The Town thanks the community for its patience and cooperation throughout the response.
Further updates will be shared as they become available.
ORIGINAL STORY: May 16, 10 p.m.
Just after 7:30 this evening, Leland Fire/Rescue crews responded to a home explosion in the 1300 block of Suncrest Way, located within the Magnolia Greens neighborhood. Upon arrival, crews confirmed an explosion originating from a townhouse unit, resulting in extensive damage.
Crews rescued one person from the home. Two people sustained injuries but were not transported to the hospital.
The explosion caused significant structural damage to at least four residential units, and crews are actively assessing surrounding homes to determine the full extent of the impact. Garage doors across the street were blown in due to the force of the blast, and multiple homes have sustained varying degrees of damage.
The incident prompted a large-scale response, with personnel from Leland Fire/Rescue, Leland Police, SBI, ATF, and fire departments from Wilmington, New Hanover County, Pender County, Winnabow, Navassa, Supply, Bolivia, and Northwest on scene.
Utilities to the affected area, including gas and electricity, have been secured and shut off. There is no ongoing threat to the public. The explosion is under active investigation.
The American Red Cross has been notified and will assist displaced residents with temporary housing and emergency needs.
Leland Fire/Rescue crews, along with mutual aid partners, will remain on scene for several hours as they continue investigation and cleanup efforts.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Town of Leland news by following us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.