Six injured in Austin house explosion, including two firefighters
The aftermath of the apparent home explosion is seen in Austin, Texas, on Sunday. PHOTO: CNN via KEYE
Six people have been injured, including two firefighters, following a house explosion in northwest Austin, Texas. The cause of the incident remains unknown, officials say.
Emergency services responded to multiple calls about a loud explosion heard around the 10400 block of Double Spur Loop on Sunday. The blast led to the total collapse of a two-storey house and caused damage to several nearby homes.
“We’re going to be here for hours,” an Austin Fire Department (AFD) spokesperson said at the scene.
Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) confirmed that six people sustained injuries. Three individuals were rescued from the collapsed structure, including one with serious but stable injuries and two in critical condition. One adult had minor injuries but declined hospital treatment, while two firefighters were treated for minor injuries.
“A two-story house sustained damage from an unknown event that caused [the] house to collapse,” the AFD said in a statement.
Footage obtained from the scene shows debris strewn across the area, small fires burning within the rubble, and a vehicle charred by fire. One house was completely destroyed while another sustained a partial collapse.
“AFD crews are extinguishing small spot fires in the collapsed debris. Several neighboring houses were damaged,” the department added.
The explosion was reportedly felt and heard in distant communities including Cedar Park, Leander, and Georgetown.
“We are aware of the loud ‘boom’ that was heard and felt throughout the city,” said Cedar Park Police on social media. “We received reports that there was an explosion, but it was in the Austin area.”
Texas Gas Service, whose crews are assisting at the scene, confirmed the home involved did not have natural gas access.
The company reminded residents to evacuate immediately and notify authorities if they smell gas. “Avoid electrical equipment like phones, garage doors, or light switches until you have safely distanced yourself from the odor,” it said.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the explosion.