A quiet Wednesday morning in southern Gillespie County turned chaotic when a powerful blast ripped through a single home, rattling windows and sending a shock wave across nearby properties. Neighbors said the explosion was strong enough to lift people from chairs and shake RVs as emergency crews rushed in from across the area. Officials reported that several people were hurt and that at least two were taken to San Antonio-area hospitals while responders worked to secure the scene.
What officials say
The Gillespie County Sheriff’s Office said deputies and fire units responded to a house explosion and fire near U.S. Highway 87 and Overlook Drive and reported “some injuries” but no fatalities, according to MySA. City of Fredericksburg public information officer Sean Doerre urged residents to steer clear of the area and give emergency crews room to do their jobs.
Response and casualties
Sheriff Chris Ayala said first responders pulled at least one resident from the home and that at least two people were transported to hospitals by EMS, the Fredericksburg Standard reported. Authorities have not released details on the extent of the injuries, and Ayala asked the public to avoid the area while investigators continue their work.
Neighbors describe the shock
Residents posting in a local Facebook weather group described a thunderous boom and intense shaking that knocked people off chairs and rattled glass. One commenter wrote, “Felt it at the hospital,” while others said their walls and windows trembled, according to MySA. Video clips and eyewitness posts spread quickly online as fire and EMS units continued to respond, and officials reiterated their plea for people not to crowd the scene.
Investigation is ongoing
The cause of the blast has not been determined, and authorities did not immediately say what might have sparked the explosion, per the Fredericksburg Standard. Officials said more information will be released as it becomes available and asked anyone with relevant information or tips to contact investigators.
