Utility strike at center of Dallas explosion investigation
(UI) - Newly released public records provide additional details about the events leading up to a fatal gas explosion that destroyed part of an apartment complex in Dallas, highlighting the role of utility locating and excavation activities in the incident.
According to records filed with Texas811, Engineering Consulting Services (ECS) requested utility markings at The Clyde apartment complex in Oak Cliff on May 21. Utility operators responded to the locate request before drilling work began at the site.
Documents reviewed by WFAA News indicate a natural gas line was damaged around 1 p.m. on May 28 during drilling operations. One report identified a drill rig operated by Barba Drilling as the source of the strike. The cause of the incident remains under investigation.
Dallas Fire-Rescue responded to reports of a gas leak shortly before the explosion occurred. Fire officials said crews were preparing to evacuate the property when the blast took place, WFAA reported. Three people were killed in the explosion, including a woman and her 18-month-old son.
Atmos Energy said it was notified that a third-party construction contractor had damaged a natural gas pipeline prior to the incident. Attorneys representing the apartment complex have also alleged that drilling activities led to the line strike, while investigations by utility and government agencies continue.
The incident has renewed attention on excavation safety practices and the importance of utility locating, marking and damage prevention procedures during underground construction activities.
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