Breaking News: House Explosion in Austin, Texas Leaves at Least 6 Injured

At least six people were injured in a house explosion on Sunday morning in Austin, Texas. The blast destroyed one home and severely damaged another, according to the Austin Fire Department.

Two of those hurt were from the affected home. One is in critical condition, while the other is serious. A neighboring resident also sustained serious injuries, and two firefighters were hurt while responding to the scene. Fortunately, one person sought treatment but didn’t require hospitalization.

The explosion occurred shortly before 11:30 a.m., causing damage to at least 24 homes nearby. There was also a vehicle that caught fire at the site of the explosion, but it has since been extinguished. Power has been restored to many homes, but those heavily damaged remain without service.

Thayer Smith, assistant chief with the Austin Fire Department, indicated that emergency responders would be on-site for several hours. He stated that the main street could be reopened soon, but the street where the incident occurred would remain closed for the rest of the day.

Authorities confirmed everyone living in the area is safe. The Travis County Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the explosion but does not believe it will lead to a criminal investigation.

Witnesses reported that the explosion was so loud it was heard miles away, including in Cedar Park, about 20 miles north of Austin. Residents near the site described the moment of the blast as shocking. Carol Hassell, a neighbor, thought a branch had fallen on her roof when she initially heard the bang. Upon stepping outside, she was stunned to find her door blown open and windows shattered.

“I’m just glad I’m OK,” Hassell said. Niki Fletcher, another resident, described the experience as frightening, saying it felt like a tree had fallen on her house.

This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness. According to the National Fire Protection Association, home explosions can be caused by gas leaks or faulty appliances. It serves as a reminder for homeowners to regularly check their gas lines and have safety measures in place.

As the investigation unfolds, local news outlets and social media are buzzing with updates and reactions. People in the community are expressing relief that there were no fatalities but are concerned about the ongoing safety of their neighborhoods.

For more updates, you can read the full report from the Austin Fire Department or stay tuned for developments in this evolving story.

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