FORT WORTH, Texas – A devastating explosion rocked downtown Fort Worth, causing significant damage to a 20-story hotel and injuring 21 people on Monday. The blast also resulted in debris from multiple floors pancaking down into the subbasement. Fire officials believe that gas was involved in the explosion, but the exact cause is still under investigation.

The explosion, which sent glass and part of the building’s facade onto the street, damaged the sidewalk and road outside the hotel. There was tremendous damage to the first floor and subfloors under the building and street, according to Fort Worth Fire Chief Jim Davis. Atmos Energy, the gas provider for the hotel, has cooperated with the investigation and isolated gas service after the explosion. The Texas Railroad Commission, which oversees the gas pipeline system outside the hotel, is conducting its investigation.

Police and fire investigators have confirmed that there is no evidence the explosion was intentional. Firefighters have been working to ensure the safety of the building and the surrounding area, including using specialized collapsed structure engineers to prevent further problems during search and rescue operations.

The number of injured people stands at 21, with one patient in critical condition being treated for burns at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas. Four others are in serious condition, and 15 were taken to area hospitals for a variety of minor injuries, according to Davis. The community has been urged to remain calm and reassured that the explosion was not intentional.

Amid the chaos, hotel guests and workers recounted their experiences of the powerful blast. Angela Cockroft, a hotel guest, reported that they smelled gas before the explosion, while Mark Montgomery, who checked in half an hour before the blast, described the chaos and eventual relief of escaping from the collapsing building.

Several roads in downtown Fort Worth remain closed, and the area surrounding the hotel is classified as a hot zone or immediate danger zone. The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo parade route may need to be altered if the cleanup and safety assessment of the area are not completed in time.

In conclusion, the community has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected gas leaks to the authorities. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing, while efforts to ensure the safety and security of the area continue. The impact of the blast, both in terms of physical damage and injuries, has been significant and will require ongoing attention and support.