The following is a news release from Lubbock Fire Rescue:
On Tuesday, March 27th, 2018 Lubbock Fire Rescue responded to 2910 21st street at approximately 9:54 PM for a reported structure fire. Upon arrival, units found heavy fire issuing from the residence. During firefighting operations, multiple explosions occurred on scene.
As reported on Wednesday, Investigators from the Lubbock Fire Marshal’s Office, State Fire Marshal’s Office and Federal Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives began an intensive examination of the scene to attempt to determine what caused this unfortunate incident.
Late this afternoon, the group of fire investigators completed their initial examination of the fire scene. They report that a fire of unknown origin started at the rear of the structure, under the carport area. The heat from the initial fire then impinged on several cylinders of compressed gas. The cylinders reached an overpressure point and exploded just prior to the arrival of Lubbock Fire Rescue. Several other explosions occurred as other cylinders reached the point of overpressure over the next several minutes as firefighters fought to bring it under control.
Related Story: Students Run Into Flames, Save House Explosion Victim
Related Story: Two Dead, Others Injured in Explosion at a Central Lubbock Home
Determination of the initial cause of the fire was severely hampered by damage caused by the exploding cylinders. Today’s scene examination is part of an overall investigation into this incident that will be ongoing. Information will be forthcoming as it becomes available.
Lubbock Fire Rescue wishes to express our sympathy to the families of the deceased and those injured in this incident. We also want to express our gratitude to the agencies previously mentioned as well as the Lubbock Police Department and others that provided assistance.
(News release from Lubbock Fire Rescue)
