Loud boom, smoke expected as ‘RJ Decker’ films explosion scene in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Residents near a Wilmington filming location may hear a loud boom and see smoke Wednesday evening as production crews film a simulated explosion for the second season of the television series RJ Decker.

According to a filming permit filed with the City of Wilmington, crews are scheduled to conduct a simulated vehicle explosion on private property as part of filming for the 20th Television production.

The special effect is expected to include a loud noise, a fireball and smoke, but officials say it is a planned and controlled production.

The permit states that the Wilmington Fire Department, Wilmington Police Department and an on-site medical team will be present throughout the stunt. The production has also notified the New Hanover County 911 Communications Center, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office and the N.C. Department of Transportation ahead of the effect in case nearby residents report the explosion.

No road closures or traffic control are planned, though two police officers will be assigned to the area for public safety and awareness.

Filming is scheduled to take place until 9 p.m. Wednesday, with prep work having taken place earlier this week and wrap activities continuing Thursday.

WWAY’s Kamy Smelser is on scene and will have coverage of the planned explosion and the production later today.

Officials emphasize there is no emergency associated with the explosion, and the smoke and loud noise are part of a permitted film production.