3 dead, including child, after apartment explosion in Dallas, officials say

(NewsNation) — Fire crews responded to an explosion and fire at a Dallas apartment complex after reports of a gas leak, with fatalities reported and multiple people hospitalized, officials said.

In an evening news conference, fire officials said at least three people had died in the explosion, and were located inside the remains of the apartment building. Officials identified the victims as two women and a child.

Three people were taken to local hospitals, officials said. Of those three, one was said to be in critical condition, but was stable. The other two have either been discharged from the hospital or are awaiting discharge. Two other people transported themselves to hospitals and had minor, non-life-threatening injuries.

According to reports, the fire started just before 1 p.m. at El Ricardo, a two-story apartment complex in Dallas. Crews had received reports of a gas leak and were en route to the location when the explosion occurred, fire officials said.

Fire officials said they had entered a recovery and excavation phase and that they are expected to remain at the scene for another 24 hours.

2 dead, 9 missing after Washington chemical tank explosion

Dallas ABC affiliate WFAA spoke with a witness who saw the start of the fire, which Dallas Fire-Rescue described as an apartment explosion. The witness said he saw a girl attempting to escape and alerted firefighters, who took her to a local hospital.

A statement from a local energy company said an unrelated construction crew had damaged a natural gas pipeline, WFAA reported, adding that more than 100 firefighters responded to the scene.

Flames engulf an apartment complex after an explosion in the Oak Cliff area of Dallas on Thursday as Dallas Fire-Rescue crews battled the blaze. Four people were hospitalized, according to reports. (KDFW FOX 4 via AP)

A large fire at an apartment complex

Dallas Fire-Rescue crews search through debris after an apartment explosion and four-alarm fire at 409 E. 9th St. in Dallas on Wednesday. Officials said the fire was under control as the incident remained ongoing. (Dallas Fire-Rescue via X)

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said in a social media post that he was following the incident.

Threat of explosion at California chemical tank eliminated

“I am closely monitoring the latest developments regarding the explosion in Oak Cliff. My prayers are with those injured, their families, and all those who have suffered loss from this tragic event,” Johnson said. “Our Dallas Fire-Rescue personnel responded swiftly, and their efforts to fight the fire are ongoing.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.

Tags: