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According to NBCDFW, an explosion rocked the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel located at 810 Houston St, Fort Worth, TX 76102, on Monday, January 8, 2024, causing significant damage to at least two floors of the high-rise building and injuring nearly two dozen people. The incident, which occurred around 3:30 p.m., is suspected to have been caused by a natural gas leak, according to officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Fort Worth Fire Department.
Following the explosion, a two-block area in downtown Fort Worth was cordoned off as the smell of natural gas persisted. The Fort Worth Fire Department, leading the investigation, stated that while the cause of the explosion has not been officially confirmed, ongoing construction in the building suggests a gas leak as the likely cause. The ATF, whose agents were present at the scene, concurred with this assessment.
Craig Trojacek of the Fort Worth Fire Department explained, "There is a smell of gas here in downtown. We're not sure if the smell of gas was caused from the explosion and the fire itself or if that's what caused the explosion. But that's what we're looking at."
Search and rescue operations continued throughout the night and into the morning, with trained canines being deployed to locate any potential victims. Fortunately, no additional victims were found. However, several roads in Fort Worth, including Throckmorton Street, Houston Street, and West 8th Street, remained closed on Tuesday morning as authorities assessed the stability of the affected building.
Late Monday afternoon, it was revealed that 26 rooms at the hotel were occupied at the time of the explosion. A thorough search of the building was conducted, and no further victims were discovered. The number of injured individuals increased from 11 to 21, with one previously reported missing person being found. Of the injured, 20 people received medical treatment either at the scene or at nearby hospitals. One person was in critical condition, four were in serious condition, and 14 sustained minor injuries. Additionally, one individual managed to walk to a hospital unaided.
As the investigation and search efforts continued, the Fort Worth fire officials announced that search and rescue operations would persist through the night to ensure no one remained trapped. Reunification efforts concluded, and the focus shifted toward determining the cause of the explosion.
Eyewitness accounts provided harrowing details of the incident. Shellie Lindley, a resident in a nearby high-rise condo, captured the immediate aftermath on video, describing it as a "sonic boom" that caused the building to shake. Mayra, an employee at the Sandman Hotel, recounted the panic and chaos as she and her coworkers rushed to evacuate. She described the collapse of the stairs and the sight of dust, smoke, and injured individuals.
The explosion resulted in significant damage to the building's facade, with at least two floors blown out onto the street and into a parking lot. The sidewalk was also affected, revealing the lower floors of the structure.
Adam Woods, a valet worker in the vicinity, recalled hearing the explosion, initially mistaking it for thunder. Upon venturing outside, he witnessed debris and white smoke emanating from the hotel. Another witness, who was working in a nearby coffee shop, shared a similar experience and expressed relief that there were no reported fatalities.
In light of the recent gas leak explosion in Texas, victims who have suffered injuries due to gas leaks often find themselves seeking answers and justice. To discuss the legal options available to these individuals, we sat down with esteemed gas explosion attorney Marc Lenahan, Esq. In this insightful interview, Mr. Lenahan shares his expertise, discussing the potential grounds for civil cases, the steps victims should take, and the challenges they may encounter during the legal process. Join us as we look closer into the world of gas leak explosion litigation and empower victims with knowledge and guidance.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Thank you for being here, Mr. Lenahan.
Marc Lenahan, ESQ. (ML): Thank you for having me, Darla. It's a pleasure to be here.
DM: In light of the recent gas leak explosion at the Sandman Signature Fort Worth Hotel, our readers are curious about what options might be available for the victims who were injured in such an incident. Could you shed some light on what they can do from a legal standpoint?
ML: Certainly, Darla. When it comes to gas leak explosions, victims who have suffered injuries typically have the right to pursue a civil case against those accountable. This can include the property owner, maintenance company, construction contractors, or even the gas company itself, depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
DM: What are some common grounds on which victims can base their civil cases?
ML: In cases like these, victims may have grounds to pursue legal action based on premises liability, negligence, or product liability. Premises liability holds property owners responsible for maintaining safe and hazard-free premises. Negligence claims can arise if there is a failure to detect or address the gas leak in a timely manner or if proper safety protocols are not followed. Product liability claims could come into play if a faulty gas line or equipment contributed to the explosion.
DM: What steps should victims take if they believe they have a valid civil case?
ML: The first crucial step is to seek immediate medical attention and ensure their well-being. Once their health is stable, it's important to consult with an experienced gas leak attorney who can assess the details of the incident and determine the best course of action. Time is of the essence in these cases, as there are statutes of limitations that govern the time within which a lawsuit can be filed.
DM: Are there any challenges victims should be prepared to face during the legal process?
ML: Gas leak explosion cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and intricate technical aspects. It's essential to gather evidence, including witness statements, expert opinions, and any available documentation related to the incident. Additionally, dealing with insurance companies and navigating the legal system can be challenging for victims, which is why having a knowledgeable attorney by their side is crucial.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Lenahan, for sharing your insights on this important matter. Is there anything else you would like to add?
ML: I would like to emphasize that victims of gas leak explosions should not hesitate to seek legal advice. By pursuing a civil case, they can seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. It's important for them to know that they have rights and legal recourse to hold those responsible accountable.
DM: Thank you once again, Mr. Lenahan, for joining us today and providing valuable information for our readers.
ML: My pleasure, Darla. Thank you for having me.
Sources:
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