New Details: Sun Metro bus explosion investigation
Update (February 19, 2025): Wednesday afternoon, City of El Paso spokesperson Laura Cruz Acosta released the following statement regarding the ongoing investigation into the explosion:
"The City of El Paso Fire Department is committed to a thorough and professional investigation into the recent fire. We understand the public’s interest and the importance of providing accurate information, which is why we want to address any misconceptions about the timeline of this investigation.
Fire investigations are complex and require time to ensure accuracy. In this case, the building remains structurally unstable, posing a significant risk to our Fire Marshal’s investigative team. For their safety, we are working closely with demolition crews to stabilize the structure before gaining access to conduct a full assessment. Any speculation suggesting unnecessary delays or withheld information is simply not accurate.
We recognize the urgency of this matter and assure the public that our priority is to conduct a safe, thorough, and factual investigation. We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available, and we encourage responsible sharing of information that reflects the realities of this process."
Laura Cruz Acosta
Strategic Communications Director
Update: El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson declined an interview with ABC-7, but sent the following statement:
"Our thoughts remain with the individuals affected by the fire at the Sun Metro Transit Operations Center. The City is doing everything in its power to ensure they receive the care and support they need during this difficult time.
The investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing, and we will continue to share information as it becomes available. I understand that this situation has created challenges for many in our community, and I want to assure residents that we are working urgently to restore stability. We hear your concerns, and we are committed to keeping you informed as we move forward with solutions."
Laura Cruz-Acosta, the city's Strategic Communications Director, also shared a statement:
"The City of El Paso is focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of our employees and residents as we manage the impact of the fire at the Sun Metro Transit Operations Center. Our priority is to support those affected, including providing medical care, counseling, and other necessary resources.
The El Paso Fire Department is actively investigating the cause of the fire, and we are cooperating fully with their efforts. Meanwhile, Sun Metro is making every effort to maintain transit operations, recognizing the essential role public transportation plays in our community. While service adjustments are in place, we continue to assess how best to restore and expand operations safely and efficiently.
We understand this situation has caused disruptions and concerns, and we want the public to know we are working as quickly and effectively as possible to restore full service. Your frustrations are heard, and we are committed to keeping the community informed as we make progress."
The Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office told ABC-7 they were not asked to help investigate the explosion.
A spokesperson with the Federal Transit Administration said, "FTA is not involved in the investigation of this incident. Sun Metro and local officials are best positioned to provide you with accurate and up-to-date details."
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- One week after eight employees were injured in an explosion at the Sun Metro Transit Operations Center, many questions remain unanswered.
Mayor Renard Johnson, along with other leaders from the City of El Paso, Sun Metro and El Paso Fire Department, held a joint press conference last Thursday.
Sun Metro officials said 40 people were accounted for in the building where the fire broke out. About 130 people were working on the property the day of the fire.
El Paso Fire Chief Jonathan Killings told members of the media he would not answer any questions about the "cause and origin" of the fire.
"Due to the condition of the building, it's going to take a little bit of time for our investigators to get through all the rubble and be able to complete that thorough investigation," Killings said.
He added the fire department would not release any information on the condition of employees who were transported from the fire "because of the respect that we have for the families."
29-year old Ruben Ibarra, a Sun Metro Fleet Maintenance Technician, died in the hospital Thursday evening.
Sun Metro Director Anthony Dekeyzer said all employees have the chance to talk with healthcare providers and fill out workers' compensation for any injuries they sustained in the explosion.
Dekeyzer added that after the Fire Department and City wrap up their investigations, Sun Metro will conduct its own internal investigation into the incident.
"Sun Metro employees play a crucial role in keeping our city moving, ensuring that thousands of residents get to work, school and essential destinations every day," Mayor Johnson said.
"We stand with them during this difficult time and we are committed to providing the support that they need as they recover and work to restore operations."
Killings said the first 9-1-1 call came from inside the Sun Metro facility at 1:06 p.m.
The first units arrived on scene four minutes after the call.
A few minutes after crews arrived, the roof and rear wall of the maintenence building collapsed, and firefighters shifted to a "defensive" strategy, which is when crews began to use ladders to spray the building with water from above.
The fire was put out roughly two hours after crews arrived on scene.
Five of the eight patients treated by EPFD were sent to nearby hospitals for treatment.
ABC-7 has contacted the mayor's office, El Paso Fire Department and Sun Metro for updates on the situation and will share any updates on air and online.
