STERLING, Va. — A former worker at a propane supplier has been charged in connection with the tragic death of a volunteer firefighter, who lost his life while responding to a house explosion in Virginia back in February, as announced by officials on Tuesday.

Roger Bentley faces indictments for involuntary manslaughter and the unlawful release of hazardous materials, according to a statement from Loudoun County Fire and Rescue. Additionally, he is being charged with failing to keep required records relating to an unauthorized hazardous materials discharge and improperly managing or controlling that discharge.

As of Tuesday, there was no indication in online court records that Bentley had legal representation to address the charges against him.

The explosion at the residence in Sterling resulted in the tragic death of volunteer firefighter Trevor Brown, along with serious injuries to eleven other first responders and an estimated $2.5 million in damage, as reported by Loudoun County officials. Brown, a dedicated member of the firefighting community since 2016, was a family man, married and a father of three.

Firefighters initially arrived at the home responding to reports of a gas odor. Upon investigation, they discovered a leak from a large, 500-gallon underground propane tank positioned near the house. Shortly after their arrival, the house exploded, engulfing it in flames, with firefighters inside issuing multiple mayday calls for assistance. Rescue crews immediately worked to free those trapped under the debris.

Prior to the explosion, two individuals inside the home were safely escorted out and only sustained minor injuries due to the blast.

Investigators concluded that the explosion originated from the leak, as uncontained propane accumulated around the structure and was ignited by an unidentified source, according to the fire department’s statement.

Bentley previously worked for Southern States Cooperative, Inc.-Leesburg-Fairfax Petroleum Service. In response to the incident, the company issued a statement indicating their full cooperation with the ongoing investigations. The company also noted that, following an internal review of their safety measures and training, particularly in terms of propane handling, they have implemented what they believe to be necessary personnel changes in the region and are committed to enhancing their safety procedures and training protocols moving forward.