HOA: Suncrest Way explosion in Leland was vapor-related, source unknown UPDATE

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — The explosion that rocked a Leland neighborhood in May was the result of a vapor explosion, according to new information released by the Three Oaks Homeowner’s Association.

In a letter sent to residents, the HOA said the exact source of the vapor and the ignition point remain unknown, with the blast likely destroying key evidence needed to make that determination.

The explosion happened on May 16 in the 1300 block of Suncrest Way in the Magnolia Greens community. Emergency crews rescued one person from the home and another was injured,  though neither were transported to the hospital.

In the days that followed, Leland Building Inspectors, Fire/Rescue crews, police, and emergency management teams remained on scene to evaluate the extent of the damage. Inspectors assessed around 70 homes in the Three Oaks section of the neighborhood. Four homes were found to be unsafe to occupy, though the majority of surrounding residences suffered only minor damage and were cleared for re-entry.

WWAY  has reached out to the Town of Leland for more details on the investigation.

UPDATE (4:00 p.m.): The Town of Leland released a statement that reveals more details.

The town explained that a vapor explosion occurs when flammable gas or vapor mixes with air and is then ignited, resulting in a powerful blast.

At this time, the specific source of the vapor and the point of ignition remain undetermined. Due to the force of the explosion, key physical evidence was likely expelled or destroyed.

However, the Town says the remaining evidence at the scene suggests that the blast may have originated from the trunk of the car, located in the garage.