Deck Collapses During Birthday Party

Investigators have a warning for homeowners

A backyard deck collapsed during a birthday party in Germantown, Md., sending five people to the hospital.

The homeowner told NBC4's Darcy Spencer that they were having a birthday celebration for his wife. About 20 to 25 people were on the deck Saturday night when a portion of it gave way. The home is in the 1100 block of Cross Laurel Drive.

Three women and two men were hurt. One of the women was in serious condition with a severe leg injury. The others victims suffered cuts, bruises and broken bones.

Investigators told News4 that too much weight on a deck can cause a collapse and that now is a good time for homeowners to check the stability of their decks before pushing the limit this holiday weekend.

The cause of the Germantown accident is under investigation.  

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