Trending Topics

2 killed in Houston explosion

Officials said debris from the blast was spread out for about half a mile and are warning residents to avoid the area

AP_20024472628730.jpg

This aerial photo taken from video provided by KTRK-TV shows damage to buildings after an explosion in Houston on Friday, Jan. 24, 2020. A large explosion left rubble scattered in the area, damaged nearby homes and was felt for miles away. A fire continues to burn and people have been told to avoid the area.

Photo/KTRK-TV via AP

By Laura French

HOUSTON — A massive explosion at a Houston manufacturing company building has killed two people, officials say.

The Houston Fire Department, Houston Police Department and Houston’s ATF, hazmat and bomb squad teams responded to the blast that spread debris across a half-mile radius and released propylene and liquid nitrogen, components of polypropylene, into the air, according to KHOU 11.

First responders are wearing masks as a precaution, but officials said the air near the blast scene is not dangerous. Authorities also said there is no mandatory evacuation but are urging nearby residents to avoid the area and exercise caution.

Multiple security cameras captured video and audio of the enormous blast.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU