A man has been charged following an explosion that injured multiple first responders in Wilmington.

Jason Lee Beach, 46, of Wilmington, has been charged with driving while intoxicated, felony serious injury, possession of drug paraphernalia, hit and run/leaving the scene, reckless driving and failure to maintain lane.

Beach is being held under a $100,000 secured bond at the New Hanover County Jail.

What we know about the explosion

Wilmington police responded to a gas leak on Tuesday, Aug. 19, after a vehicle turning on to New Centre Drive struck a gas line after driving off the road, Wilmington Police Department Public Information Officer Greg Willett said at a news conference.

The gas lines fed the future Eastern Carolina Veterinary Medical Center building, which ultimately exploded.

See Full Page