In Austin, Texas, officials are investigating a house explosion that occurred in the north-western part of the city. The incident, reported around 11.25am CDT, startled residents who heard and felt the explosion, with one witness describing how it shook windows and buildings. The Austin fire department confirmed that four individuals, including a firefighter, sustained injuries due to the blast, which resulted in the complete collapse of the house.

Aside from the primary damage to the exploded property, neighboring homes also suffered structural harm. The aftermath of the explosion led to power outages in the vicinity, prompting authorities to cordon off the neighborhood as emergency crews addressed small spot fires that emerged.

Initial investigations point towards a gas explosion, likely propane, as the cause of the devastating incident. The Texas Gas Service affirmed that the affected house did not have a natural gas connection, further supporting the hypothesis. As emergency responders continue to assess the situation, more details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the explosion.

This alarming event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with gas-related incidents and highlights the importance of prompt response and thorough investigation to prevent similar tragedies in the future.