A large fire destroyed a two-storey apartment complex in Dallas, Texas, on Thursday, sending huge plumes of black smoke into the sky [1]. Firefighters were responding to reports of a gas leak when an explosion occurred, igniting the fire [1, 2]. Deputy Chief Mark Berry of Dallas Fire-Rescue confirmed fatalities and said the mission had shifted from rescue to recovery. "There have been fatalities at this point. Let us work through the recovery phase and get a total number," Berry said [1].
At least three people, including a child, have died in the fire, according to reports [2]. The exact death toll remains uncertain, as some sources confirm fatalities but do not specify a number while search efforts continue for missing people [1, 2]. At least four others were injured in the blaze [1].
Berry described the responders’ challenge: "Firefighters were responding to a call of a gas leak when an explosion happened. We had the cavalry coming, but the explosion had already taken place." This sudden explosion caused extensive destruction to the apartment block [1].
Search teams remain on scene conducting thorough searches for anyone unaccounted for following the fire [1, 2]. Recovery efforts are ongoing as authorities aim to determine the total number of victims.
The fire broke out on August 13 after the explosion linked to the reported gas leak [1, 2]. Officials have not released a timeline for when the search will be completed or when residents might be allowed access to the site.
