A massive explosion at a laundromat in Ocala, Florida injured four people and caused extensive damage to the facility and surrounding shops. The explosion happened just after 6 p.m., with smoke and flames seen coming from the area. Medics assessed the injured and two were taken to the hospital, while firefighters worked to control the flames and search for any other potential victims.
The cause of the explosion is still under investigation by the State Fire Marshals office and Ocala Fire Rescue Inspectors. The laundromat and adjacent shops were deemed unfit for regular operations. A witness, Marilyn Vega Ortiz, reported hearing a loud noise and smelling gas before the explosion occurred. She had just loaded a washing machine and had called the owners to alert them about the gas smell.
Ortiz and her daughter were injured in the explosion and taken to the hospital for treatment. Ortiz’s daughter’s boyfriend suffered a broken leg and burns. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing, with the fire department yet to provide updates on the progress. The incident has left the community shocked and concerned about the safety of the area.
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