AUSTIN, Texas — Residents in a northwest Austin neighborhood spent Monday assessing the damage, repairing their homes, and boarding up shattered windows and doors after a home explosion Sunday morning.
Officials said the blast, which occurred on Double Spur Loop near Spicewood Springs Road, damaged at least 24 homes Sunday. Six people were hurt in the blast, with two people still in critical condition.
Residents said the explosion’s impact was felt throughout the neighborhood; material was seen scattered across streets and even caused damage to a nearby elementary school.
Round Rock ISD officials said the blast shattered the cafeteria and a classroom window at Laurel Elementary School, just down the street. They said one portable was also damaged, impacting electricity and plumbing.
Prabha John, who has lived in the area for 30 years, said she was on her daily walk around the neighborhood when she heard the loud noise.
“The whole thing blew up,” John said. “How can a house blow up like that? I just don’t understand.”
The American Red Cross is assisting two families affected by the explosion. As investigators continue to search for the cause, John said she has unanswered questions and is growing concerned about her safety.
“We don’t even know what went wrong. So we can’t … I don’t know how to think,” John said. “I mean, what should I do? Should I walk this way anymore?”
Texas Gas Service confirmed that the home where the explosion occurred did not have natural gas service but did have propane. Rachel Lewis with the Austin Fire Department said propane service is more common in rural areas of Travis County and is rarely seen in the inner city.
While residents were assessing their homes, Lewis recommended that the community also check on their propane systems.
“If you have a propane system, and you were not affected by the blast, regardless, you should be having your propane system checked annually,” Lewis said. “You can have the service person come out. They will run the pressure test system. They will check all of the lines, the regulator, the tank for any debris, any cracks, any rust, any just wear and tear that you see just from the everyday usage and the weather.”
Lewis also recommends that residents with propane tanks regularly check for unusual smells, hissing sounds, or visible wear and tear.
The Travis County Fire Marshal’s Office released the following statement on the explosion:
“Yesterday’s tragic events will remain under investigation until all relevant facts and evidence are gathered, examined, and confirmed. Until the investigation is complete, this office will not release any information or speculate on causes. We appreciate the public’s understanding and patience.
I would also like to thank all the partner agencies that have assisted and continue to assist with this investigation. This includes, the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Austin Fire Department, Austin Police Department, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services, Williamson County Fire Marshal’s Office, the Texas department of Public Safety, the FBI, and ATF.
Together, we will work tirelessly to complete the investigation and bring some closure to all the community members affected.”