On August 4th, 2016, Hobbs Fire Department (HFD) and City staff completed a detailed investigation.
This explosion of small debris and shattering of the wood framed home resulted in a challenging investigation. The sifting through rubble and debris exposed the area of origin and cause of this explosion.
It is determined the cause of this explosion is accidental with gas and vapor pockets believed to have migrated throughout the structure, possibly losing the detectable odor normally found in a natural gas mixture.
This situation along with the gas meeting the explosive limits necessary with a potential source of ignition is determined to have caused the blast and destructive damage to the home and adjacent properties.
The conclusion of the investigation is determined on the specific evidence documented, collected, and preserved from the scene; therefore the investigation by HFD is complete.
(Press release from City of Hobbs)
