FORT WORTH, Texas – An explosion at a downtown Fort Worth hotel injured 21 people on Monday. According to Atmos Energy, their system was not involved in the blast. The explosion at the W.T. Waggoner Building caused substantial damage to the building, with the first two floors collapsing into the sub-basement.
As of now, at least 21 people have been treated for injuries, including one individual in critical condition at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, where they are being treated for burns. Fortunately, there were no fatalities. Atmos Energy confirmed that their equipment was not at fault after completing safety checks and an investigation at the 20-story tower, which is almost 104 years old.
The Fort Worth Fire Department stated that the National Transportation Safety Board oversaw Atmos’ testing and did not contest the statements made by Atmos. They also mentioned that from the initial investigation hours, they suspected natural gas to be involved, and although the cause for the blast has not been confirmed, they believe natural gas played a role.
Fire Chief Jim Davis noted that the investigation is still in its early stages but expressed gratitude for everyone’s continued cooperation. The fire investigation unit will continue to work with the Fort Worth Police and other agencies in the ongoing investigation. If anyone suspects a natural gas leak, they are urged to leave the area immediately and call 911 and Atmos Energy’s 24-hour toll-free emergency number at 866-322-8667. People can find more information about natural gas home safety by visiting Atmos Energy’s website.
In summary, Atmos Energy found no indication that their system was involved in the explosion at the downtown Fort Worth hotel that injured 21 people. The cause of the blast has not been confirmed but is believed to involve natural gas. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone who suspects a natural gas leak to report it immediately.