By Crash News Writer 
Wilmington, NC (August 20, 2025) – A destructive hit-and-run incident ended in a fiery explosion and multiple firefighter injuries on Tuesday morning after a vehicle slammed into a veterinary clinic in Wilmington.
News sources show the chain of events began around 11 a.m. on August 19, 2025, when 46-year-old Jason Lee Beach allegedly crashed into the Eastern Carolina Veterinary Medical Center located on New Centre Drive. The impact severed a gas line, prompting an emergency response. Beach reportedly fled the scene but was later located and arrested.
As fire crews searched the clinic for occupants, a gas explosion erupted. Three Wilmington firefighters were injured during the blast. One sustained serious burns to his hands and arms, while two others suffered less severe injuries. All were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
No civilians were inside the clinic during the explosion. Fire crews secured the gas leak and brought the fire under control shortly after.
Beach now faces several felony charges, including DWI with serious injury, hit and run, reckless driving, and more. He remains in custody at the New Hanover County Detention Center under a $100,000 bond.
For more on how state laws could impact your case, read about car accident laws in North Carolina.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident Today
After any serious accident — especially one involving explosions, injuries, or criminal charges — victims and their families should immediately explore legal options. Medical costs, emotional trauma, and lost wages can create overwhelming financial strain. Taking legal action ensures injured parties receive compensation for their suffering and that negligent drivers are held accountable.
A qualified attorney can help navigate the complexities of local laws, manage insurance disputes, and collect crucial evidence to support your claim. Whether it’s a personal injury lawsuit or an insurance claim, securing legal counsel early significantly strengthens your case.
If you’ve recently searched “car accident near me” and were involved in a similar situation, don’t wait to protect your rights. The aftermath of a “car accident near me” can be life-changing. Get the help you need today — after a “car accident near me,” time is critical. Anyone injured in a “car accident near me” should act quickly to preserve their legal options.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The information in this article is based on initial reports from local authorities and may be subject to updates as investigations continue.
- The identities of those involved in the incident have not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.
- Further details about the accident, including toxicology results and potential charges, will be shared as they become available.
- Road closures and traffic updates related to the accident scene can be found by checking with local authorities or traffic monitoring services.
For more help, view our frequently asked questions in North Carolina for accident victims.
Visit our guide to accident resources in North Carolina to get connected with the support services available in your area.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.