SAN ANTONIO — The community is rallying around Carlos Garcia, a 41-year-old handyman who suffered severe burns and remains in critical condition following a gas line explosion in his home last week. Family members report he has sustained burns to over 35% of his body and faces a long road to recovery, potentially spending three to six months in the hospital.
The explosion occurred early Friday morning while Garcia was asleep. Initial reports suggested a lit cigarette may have ignited the flames, but family members have since been informed that a gas line malfunction was likely at fault. Amanda Garcia, Carlos’s sister, emphasized that he did not smoke and his stove was electric, which casts doubt on earlier assumptions. “His gas lines ran underneath his room, and that’s where the explosion happened while he was sleeping,” she said.
In addition to Carlos, another family member who was also at home during the incident suffered burns, though there have been no updates on her condition. The family is understandably anxious as doctors prepare for surgical procedures involving skin grafts. While waiting in a surgical area, Amanda expressed the emotional burden of seeing her brother in such distress.
“He is unable to speak and is intubated,” she lamented, describing the extensive damage he has sustained to his arms and hands—critical tools for his work. The family is bracing to spend the upcoming holiday season at the hospital, staying close to support him through his recovery.
CPS Energy has dispatched a crew to investigate the explosion, and the city is evaluating whether the house is salvageable or needs to be demolished. Reports indicate that emergency demolition is being recommended after an assessment of the property.
In the wake of the tragedy, community support is crucial. Amanda Garcia has called for prayers, emphasizing the need for the family to unite and bolster Carlos’s spirits during this taxing time. A fundraising initiative is also underway, aimed at providing financial assistance for Garcia’s lengthy recovery.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the well-being of Carlos and his family, who are relying on both medical experts and the support of their community to navigate this challenging chapter.