Maryland nursery incident leaves one critical after tank rupture mistaken for explosion

Investigators say 180-degree water release caused collapse and injuries in Keymar

Carroll County, MD – A workplace incident initially believed to be an explosion at a Carroll County nursery left one man critically injured and two others hurt Friday evening, after investigators determined a ruptured hot-water tank caused the destruction.

Emergency crews were dispatched around 5:05 p.m. to Catoctin Mountain Nursery on Sixes Bridges Road in Keymar for reports of a boiler explosion. When firefighters arrived, they encountered significant structural damage, including partially collapsed sections of the building and an overturned vehicle caught in debris.

Investigation reveals rupture, not explosion

“During their investigation, they confirmed the damage WAS NOT caused by a fire or explosion,” officials said. “Instead, a large hot-water holding tank had ruptured, spilling its entire contents of 180-degree water throughout the immediate area.”

The sudden release of pressurized hot water caused damage consistent with an explosion, according to investigators from the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Key Points

Incident at Keymar nursery initially reported as explosion, later ruled tank rupture
65-year-old man airlifted in critical condition; two others suffered burns
Investigation referred to state labor safety unit for further review

Multiple agencies respond as safety probe continues

Three employees were injured in the incident. The 65-year-old victim was flown to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition. Of the other two workers, one was transported in stable condition while the other declined medical treatment.

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland Occupational Safety and Health responded due to the workplace injuries. Following the on-scene investigation, the case was referred to the Maryland Department of Labor’s Boiler and Pressure Vessel Safety Inspection Unit for further review.

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