El Paso man dies after vehicle explosion at Sun Metro facility

UPDATE: The City of El Paso confirmed the passing of a Fleet Maintenance Technician, Ruben Ibarra.

"The City of El Paso and Sun Metro are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Ruben Ibarra, a Fleet Maintenance Technician with Sun Metro, who succumbed to his injuries Thursday evening following the tragic events earlier this week."

El Paso leaders expressed their condolences.

“Our hearts go out to Ruben’s family, friends, and colleagues as they face this unimaginable loss,” said City Manager Dionne Mack. “Ruben was a valued member of our Sun Metro team, and his passing is a heartbreaking loss for all who had the privilege of working alongside him. As we mourn, we remain committed to supporting his loved ones, and the City of El Paso will cover the costs of his funeral expenses to assist his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

“Ruben’s commitment to public service and his contributions to our community will never be forgotten,” said Mayor Johnson. “The City of El Paso stands in solidarity with his loved ones and the entire Sun Metro family during this time of mourning. We ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers and to honor Ruben’s memory by supporting one another and showing compassion in the face of this tragedy,” said Mayor Renard U. Johnson and the El Paso City Council.

Ruben Ibarra joined Sun Metro in December 2024. While his time with the department was brief, he was part of the Sun Metro family. His loss is deeply felt by those who worked alongside him.

“This is a tragic loss for our Sun Metro team,” said Sun Metro Director Anthony DeKeyzer. “Our employees are the heart of our department, and we are all feeling the weight of this moment. We are committed to providing the support and resources our team needs to grieve, heal, and move forward together.”

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)-- An El Paso man has died from his injuries after a vehicle explosion at a Sun Metro facility on Tuesday.

29-year old Ruben Ibarra died from his injuries Thursday night, according to a GoFundMe page set up by his family.

Ibarra was one of the two patients reportedly taken to a Phoenix burn center.

The family says the money raised from the GoFundMe page will go toward the families financial burdens including a funeral service. 

If you would like to donate you can visit the GoFundMe page set up by Ibarra's family.

The vehicle explosion remains under investigation. Eight individuals in total were injured, according to officials.