A two-story apartment building in Dallas's Oak Cliff neighborhood collapsed on Thursday afternoon following a gas leak and explosion. Dallas Fire-Rescue (DFR) confirmed multiple fatalities and several injuries.
"We are still in the process of locating victims." – DFR spokesperson Jason Evans
Incident Timeline
DFR responded to a report of a gas leak at the El Ricardo apartment building at 409 E 9th St. at approximately 12:47 p.m. The explosion occurred shortly after firefighters arrived. The building was destroyed in the incident. By 2:30 p.m., 71 units and 120 firefighters were on scene for the five-alarm incident.
Casualties and Injuries
Fatalities: Dallas Fire Deputy Chief Mark Berry confirmed fatalities. Dallas Fire-Rescue later reported three deaths. The Dallas Medical Examiner was on scene. The search operation transitioned from rescue to recovery.
Injuries: Three individuals were transported to hospitals by DFR. A fourth individual self-transported to a medical facility.
- Methodist Dallas Medical Center reported one patient in good condition.
- Parkland Health reported one patient in good condition.
Cause
Atmos Energy reported that a construction crew not affiliated with the company damaged a natural gas pipeline near the address. Natural gas service to the area was shut off. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Evacuations and Response
- DFR evacuated residents from a neighboring apartment complex to the east and a small house to the west.
- A family reunification center was established at WH Adamson High School.
- Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson and City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert issued statements of support for those affected.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported hearing an explosion. One witness, Oliver Jimenez, stated he observed a young girl being rescued from the debris.