Damaged Gas Pipeline Investigated After Dallas Explosion Kills 3
A damaged Atmos Energy natural gas pipeline is being investigated as a possible factor in a Dallas apartment explosion that killed three people, injured four others and prompted an NTSB investigation.
[Editor's Note:This article has been updated on May 30, 2026 at 8:32 p.m. to clarify that a third-party construction crew not affiliated with Atmos Energy damaged the natural gas pipeline near the explosion site.]
(P&GJ) — A damaged natural gas pipeline is at the center of an investigation into a deadly explosion and fire that destroyed part of an apartment complex in Dallas, killing at least three people and injuring four others, according to Houston Public Media.
Emergency crews responded to reports of a gas leak near East 9th Street and Patton Avenue on May 28. While firefighters were en route, an explosion occurred at the Oak Cliff apartment complex, prompting a large-scale emergency response and a five-alarm fire.
Authorities confirmed three fatalities, including two women and a child. Four additional people were transported to area hospitals. Search efforts continued as crews worked through debris from the collapsed structure.
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According to Houston Public Media, Atmos Energy said Dallas Fire-Rescue informed the utility that a construction crew not affiliated with Atmos Energy damaged a natural gas pipeline near the site of the incident. Atmos said its technicians responded to assist emergency personnel, shut off gas service in the immediate area and remained on site while the investigation continued.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it is sending investigators to Dallas to examine the explosion. In addition to aviation accidents, the agency investigates significant incidents involving natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines.
Dallas Fire-Rescue officials said approximately 120 firefighters responded after the initial gas leak report escalated into a major structure fire. Emergency officials established a family assistance center and coordinated support services for displaced residents, while local organizations and volunteers provided food, shelter assistance and other aid.
The two-story apartment complex contained 23 units, according to local property records. Investigators have not determined the exact cause of the explosion, and local, state and federal authorities continue to investigate the incident.