FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF News ) – A number of agencies are working to identify the cause and assess structural damage from the explosion at the Sandman Signature Hotel in downtown Fort Worth Monday afternoon.
The blast injured 21 people, one critically and four seriously. Miraculously, no one was killed in the explosion.
In an update Tuesday morning, Fort Worth Police Officer Jimmy Pollozani said there are certain areas that are restricted.
“We are encouraging employees of the businesses in the surrounding the hot zone that they are allowed to come to their businesses and conduct their business as normal. But…anything inside the immediate hot zone here on 8th…between 7th and 9th and Houston and 7th and 9th and Throckmorton…it is considered an immediate danger zone,” he said.
A FEMA engineer was sent to inspect the building. The agency used cadaver dogs in and around the debris field to search for anymore potential victims that may not have been found.
So far, no one has been reported missing. The Texas Railroad Commission, that regulates oil and gas, said they’re also sending an inspector to investigate.
The area is expected to be shut down for the next few days.
Authorities said natural gas is likely the cause of the explosion but it’s unclear what came first: the gas or the blast.
Police have set up a hotline for anyone who works in the immediate area to call for more information at (817)392-8866.
Guests of the Sandman Hotel can reclaim property at the Zipper building located at 275 13th St. Entry into the building is at the bay door on the west (Monroe St) side of the building.
It will reopen at 7 a.m. Wednesday and closes at 10 p.m.
Fort Worth PD said they’re working closely with officials of the Fort Worth Stock Show parade and the MLK Day parade to ensure that everyone will be safe during the upcoming events.
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