A dive shop in Brookline, Massachusetts, became the scene of a chaotic emergency when a fire broke out, leading to multiple explosions. The incident occurred at East Coast Divers on Boylston Street on Thursday morning, where firefighters were called to respond to an explosion reported in the back of the shop.

Firefighters Face Challenges

Firefighters, led by Chief John Sullivan, faced significant challenges due to the presence of multiple cylinders of compressed air and various gases stored in the shop for diving purposes. These conditions required careful navigation as they worked to control the blaze.

During the response, several of these cylinders exploded, adding to the complexity of the situation. Despite these challenges, the firefighters successfully extinguished the fire. Chief Sullivan confirmed that the tanks did not contain any hazardous materials, which helped mitigate potential risks.

Injuries and Displacement

One shop worker sustained burns during the incident, although the injuries are not considered life-threatening. Additionally, a firefighter suffered a cut to the hand while responding to the emergency. The fire and explosions also caused damage to two apartments located above the dive shop, resulting in the displacement of at least five residents.

Investigation Underway

The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, with the State Fire Marshal’s Office involved in determining the origins of the blaze. As the investigation continues, the community is left to assess the impact of the incident on local businesses and residents.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.