Downtown Fort Worth Hotel devastated after explosion; Emergency responders treat 21 injured, search for missing continues

An explosion at the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Downtown Hotel has left 21 people injured, with emergency responders rushing to the scene to treat victims and search for those missing. The blast, which occurred at the newly-renovated hotel, resulted in significant damage, reducing parts of the historic building to rubble.

Of the 21 injured individuals, one is reported to be in critical condition, while four others are seriously hurt. Emergency services treated 19 people on-site, with nine victims transported to hospitals and 14 others sent for medical attention. Despite the severity of the incident, there have been no reported fatalities, and the fire department continues to search for any missing persons throughout the night.

The cause of the explosion remains unclear, with the Fort Worth Fire Department noting a strong smell of gas in the area after the blast. The fire department is investigating whether the explosion was related to a gas leak. Witnesses reported hearing what sounded like an earthquake, with walls, floors, and windows blown out from the force of the explosion.

The Sandman Signature Fort Worth Downtown Hotel, built in 1920, is one of the city’s most historic hotels, boasting 245 rooms and retaining many original features. The hotel had recently undergone renovations and had just reopened. The explosion prompted a mass casualty incident declaration, mobilizing various emergency responders to address the aftermath of the devastating event.