FORT WORTH, Texas – The aftermath of the Sandman Hotel explosion in downtown Fort Worth last month continues to impact local businesses as they struggle amid the ongoing cleanup. The explosion, which occurred on January 8, left 21 people injured but fortunately resulted in no fatalities.
One month later, cleanup crews are still working to clear the wreckage, leading to reduced foot traffic for nearby businesses. O’Hanlon, Demerath, and Castillo, a law firm located near the site of the explosion, is now contemplating legal action on behalf of their firm and other struggling small businesses in the area.
Several lawsuits have already been initiated as a result of the explosion. Christopher Medearis filed a suit against Atmos Energy, Sandman Management, and Northland Properties Corp, seeking a minimum of $1 million in damages. Another lawsuit was filed by Karen Mayte Lopez Ontiveros, who was injured during the explosion and alleges negligence on the part of multiple entities.
Atmos Energy, named in nine cases representing 33 individuals, has filed a lawsuit seeking to absolve itself from liability. The ongoing legal battles indicate the complexity and prolonged impact of the explosion on the local community.
Local business owners, such as Tim Ballard of Cowtown Segway Adventures, reported significant losses in foot traffic and revenue as a result of the incident. Ballard expressed his consideration to join the potential lawsuit being pursued by the law firm, highlighting the financial strain experienced by small businesses in the area. The lingering effects of the explosion on local businesses and the legal battles that have ensued underscore the broader impact of such incidents on the community.