A gas explosion at a Dallas apartment building located at 409 E 9th St. killed three people and injured five others Thursday. The building is known as the Clyde apartment building, formerly the El Ricardo. It is located just east of the Bishop Arts neighborhood.
Initial Response
Dallas Fire-Rescue (DFR) crews responded to a call about a gas leak at the apartment complex around 12:47 p.m., according to Assistant Fire Chief James Russ. Deputy Chief Mark D. Berry said the explosion occurred while first responders were en route.
Victims and Injuries
The blast resulted in a large fire that destroyed the two-story complex. Two adult women and one child were found dead in the rubble, according to DFR spokesperson Jason Evans. Three people were transported to hospitals, one in critical condition, while two others self-transported with minor injuries.
Firefighting Efforts
Nearly 100 firefighters responded to the five-alarm incident, working to contain the flames and search for victims. By 2:30 p.m., 71 units were on scene, with 120 firefighters present. Fire crews contained the flames by 4 p.m., but hot spot flare-ups continued as personnel combed through the debris. Crews had cleared roughly 40% of the building by 8 p.m. Thursday.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported hearing a large boom and feeling their buildings shake. Oliver Jimenez, who lives across the street, said he felt his building shake. Julie Jensen, who lives less than a block away, said the explosion left her ears ringing and items fell off her walls.
Official Statements
Mayor Eric Johnson said he is closely monitoring the situation and expressed his prayers for those affected. He also recognized the bravery of the Dallas firefighters and first responders. City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert echoed those sentiments.
Investigation and Assistance
Atmos Energy stated that a construction crew unrelated to them damaged a natural gas pipeline near the apartment complex. Atmos technicians are working with first responders, and natural gas service in the area has been shut off. The National Transportation Safety Board is sending a team to investigate the explosion. A family reunification center has been set up at WH Adamson High School, and the city is providing hotels for displaced residents.
Recovery Efforts
Deputy Chief Mark Berry said the mission has shifted from rescue to recovery. Firefighters will remain on scene overnight and into the morning to preserve the integrity of the scene. DFR spokesperson Jason Evans said crews will continue searching the building, adding, "We may very well find more victims."
