May 16th, 2014 by WCBC Radio
The Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined a propane leak in the basement of the business located at 1200 Silver Run Valley Road was the origin and cause for the explosion that injured two female employees, causing them to be transported
to area hospitals.
The first victim, Heather Bree Harbin (38), was transported via MSP helicopter to Johns Hopkins
Bayview Burn Center with 1st & 2nd degree burns to 40% of her upper torso and face. She remains in
critical but stable condition. The second victim, Julie Ann Griffith (39), was transported via MSP
helicopter to R. Adams Crowley Shock Trauma Center after receiving trauma as a direct result of the
explosion. She is in good condition and is expected to be released today.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2014. Nearly 50
firefighters and EMS personnel responded to the scene of the 2-alarm blaze. Units from Pleasant Valley,
Littlestown, Westminster, Taneytown, Reese, Harney and McSherrystown Volunteer Fire Departments
placed the fire under control in one hour. The Carroll County Advanced Tactical Rescue Team
responded to shore up the walls for safe entry by investigators.
The 20’ x 40’ single story building was originally built in 1850 as a small schoolhouse. It has
since been remodeled and operates as Premier Financial Solutions owned by Gail Martin of Silver Run,
Maryland.
Investigators determined a propane leak occurred and pooled in the basement area. Multiple
electrical sources were located within the space and the ignition source remains under investigation at
this time.
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