A suspected transformer explosion ripped through part of the Spanish Hills Apartments in West Tacoma on Sunday evening, sending residents scrambling into the parking lot and leaving dozens displaced overnight. Fire officials said the blast caused significant structural damage, but no injuries were reported.
Tacoma Fire crews were called out at 5:37 p.m. to the 6400 block of South 12th Street after residents reported smoke and fire alarms blaring, according to KOMO. Firefighters began evacuating residents about 20 minutes after arriving. The station reported that smoke was found coming from an electrical conduit and that one resident yanked a fire alarm to warn neighbors.
Investigators Suspect Transformer Failure
Fire investigators told reporters they believe a failed electrical transformer started a small fire that then triggered a larger explosion inside a wall, according to KIRO. The outlet reported that roughly 96 units across eight buildings were evacuated, and firefighters on scene were pushed back by the blast. Tacoma Fire confirmed that no one was hurt.
Red Cross Support And Hunt Middle School Shelter
In an update, the American Red Cross said the affected complex includes five buildings, and that one building, an estimated four units housing about a dozen people, was directly impacted. The remaining buildings temporarily lost power, according to KOMO. Displaced residents gathered at Hunt Middle School, where Red Cross responders provided food, water, and temporary lodging while officials checked the damage.
Why Crews Ordered A Full Evacuation
Officials said incident commanders cleared the apartments out of caution while utility crews inspected the wiring and structural integrity of the buildings. Under Tacoma fire code, incident commanders are allowed to order immediate evacuations when a structure is considered unsafe. As outlined by the City of Tacoma, fire officials can clear occupied premises during an active incident.
Residents Take Stock Of The Damage
Neighbors described shattered glass and warped patios after the blast. "The windows were blown into the yard," a nearby resident told KIRO. Tacoma Fire and utility crews said they will continue assessing the complex to determine when residents can safely return.
