FORT WORTH, Texas – An explosion that rocked the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel on Monday afternoon left nearly two dozen people injured and caused significant damage to the building. The blast, which occurred in downtown Fort Worth, is suspected to have been caused by a natural gas leak.
The explosion, which blew out at least two floors of the high-rise hotel, led to the evacuation of a two-block area due to the lingering smell of natural gas. The Fort Worth Fire Department is leading the investigation into the incident, citing ongoing construction in the building as a potential factor in the explosion.
Authorities have confirmed 21 injuries, with one person in critical condition and four others seriously injured. However, there have been no reports of fatalities. The search and rescue efforts at the hotel concluded with no additional victims found.
The hotel’s restaurant, Musume, reported that three employees were injured in the explosion but were in stable condition and receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. The blast caused extensive damage to the building’s facade and nearby sidewalk, with debris strewn across the surrounding area.
As emergency response teams work to secure the area and investigate the cause of the explosion, Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare has ordered the closure of downtown county buildings. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has pledged to deploy additional personnel and resources to ensure the safety of residents in the area.
Despite the historic significance of the W.T. Waggoner Building, where the hotel is located, the focus remains on assessing the extent of the damage and ensuring the safety of those affected by the explosion. The investigation continues, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.