Explosion Rocks Residence in the Vicinity of Washington DC Amidst Police Confrontation with Armed Suspect

A home in Arlington, Virginia, was destroyed by a massive explosion during a police search warrant operation, according to authorities. Prior to the blast, shots were fired from inside the house as officers attempted to enter. The police had initially responded to a report about someone firing a flare gun from the residence on Monday evening. Only minor injuries were reported among the officers on the scene, but it remains unclear if the suspect was caught or harmed. Several residents in the nearby area mentioned on social media that they felt their homes shake. Firefighters are currently working to extinguish the fire caused by the explosion. Arlington County police tweeted that as they were executing the search warrant, the suspect discharged multiple rounds inside the house, leading to the explosion. Officials are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. An online video captured the moment of the blast, showing an advancing SWAT team vehicle towards the residence. Some residents have been evacuated by the police, while others have been advised to shelter in place. Prior to the explosion, eyewitness Jim Mathews observed multiple flares being fired off in short intervals.