FORT WORTH, Texas – After an explosion in downtown Fort Worth injured 21 people, crews are working to clean up the debris as investigators seek to determine the cause of the blast.
The explosion at the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel on Monday afternoon caused shattered glass and part of the building’s facade to fall onto the streets below. Additionally, two floors of the hotel collapsed into the subbasement. As on-site operations wind down, investigators are reviewing footage from nearby businesses to piece together what led to the explosion.
Fort Worth Fire Chief Jim Davis stated that the cause of the explosion, whether it was gas-related or not, is still unknown and under investigation. Additionally, city departments are working on a plan for the cleanup and next steps in securing the building.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Railroad Commission (RRC) of Texas are also involved in the investigation. The RRC is monitoring Atmos Energy’s procedures in relation to explosion investigations.
The Consulate General of Mexico in Dallas is asking questions to determine how many Mexican nationals were affected by the blast and is offering assistance to those in need.
As the investigation continues, the community is focused on providing support and resources to those impacted by the explosion. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, and authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of all those involved.
As the cleanup efforts continue, the community’s thoughts are with the injured and those affected by the blast. The investigation into the cause of the explosion remains ongoing.