Whidbey Island fireworks explosion tears through homes, injuring responders

Hundreds of pounds of stored fireworks exploded in the Lagoon Point area of Central Whidbey Island, destroying multiple homes and injuring five people, including three firefighters who responded to the fire. Authorities say the blast was likely caused by someone smoking near the fireworks. Two civilians were hurt and sought treatment, while the Island County Sheriff’s Office and the ATF are investigating for possible charges as they determine the full cause and circumstances.