A B717's engine failed as takeoff power was being applied.

Narrative

Tower cleared us onto the runway at an intersection to line up and wait. We received takeoff clearance; and upon advancing the throttle for takeoff; heard a loud 'pop' followed by a small lurch to the left. We aborted the takeoff roll to figure out what happened. Level 2 alert Engine Left Compressor Stall appeared; followed immediately by the left engine failing. Associated warnings and alerts and TGT climbed to 1072 degrees. An air carrier aircraft behind us reported a puff of sparks; flame; and possibly debris from the left engine. We then proceeded to shut off fuel to the left engine as we began to taxi clear of the runway. There was no fire indication inside the aircraft. As we were clearing the runway; we requested Crash Fire Rescue to assure that the situation was under control outside the aircraft. We secured the engine; talked to the Flight Attendants; passengers; Company Operations; and after discussing with the Fire Crew; determined there were no further problems. We then proceeded to the gate to de-plane our passengers.