Lubbock, TX – Lubbock Fire Department investigators say leaking natural gas appears to have sparked the massive explosion and fire that ripped through the Briercroft Manor Apartment Complex in the 1300 block of 65th Drive.
Deputy Fire Marshal Robert Loveless reports natural gas was the main fuel source, but they are still looking for the ignition source. Residents report having smelled gas in the home Monday night. Loveless says one resident filed an official report about a half hour before the explosion happened at roughly 9:00 a.m. Tuesday.
Witnesses say they heard a single blast which shook nearby buildings, followed by an inferno and dense smoke.
Upon our arrival we called for a 2nd alarm, which brought several units, Deputy Fire Marshal Robert Loveless said. Six fire engines and three truck companies, which are the tall aerial ladders that you see, are here.
There are several injuries, including seven victims who were treated at Lubbock hospitals. One of the injured, an infant, was caught beneath the roof as it caved in. That one-month old is reportedly okay. A 38-year old man has been admitted to UMC’s burn unit.
38 people are now homeless with just the clothes on their backs. The extent of the damage was so severe; the complex has been deemed unsafe and has been demolished. Five families have been relocated to other apartments and the others will be assisted by the Red Cross and Salvation Army.
We see this as a key component here in Lubbock, said Melody Patton, Salvation Army Community Relations. We are out here not only serving the physical needs of the survivors and responders, but also the spiritual needs. We will be out here well after the disaster helping rebuild these lives.
Atmos Energy urges that if you detect the odor of natural gas, report it immediately by calling 911 or the emergency hotline (866) 322-8667.