Makeshift Fire Pit Explodes Near Monkton, Seriously Injuring 2: Police

MONKTON, MD – A father and son are in serious condition Monday morning after officials said a makeshift fire pit exploded outside the father's home near Monkton Sunday night.

Four family members were sitting around a bonfire in the 16500 block of JM Pearce Road around 9 p.m. when a washing machine drum that they had been using as a fire pit exploded, police said.

Hazardous devices experts found wood in the makeshift fire pit and determined that an unknown accelerant had been used to light a fire, according to authorities.

• Possible Monkton Explosion, Medevac Called: Baltimore County Officials

A 65-year-old man and his 38-year-old son were flown to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, officials reported. They were listed in serious condition Monday morning.

The son's 33-year-old wife and 2-year-old daughter were taken by ambulance to the University of Maryland Medical Center with injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening, police said.

"No foul play is involved, and no charges are expected at this time," officials said in a statement.

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