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Dallas Gas Explosion Injures 3

Truck fire ignites massive blasts; major highways shut down

By Dustin Lushing,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 25, 2007 3:30 PM CDT

(Newser) – At least three people were injured today after a stock of acetylene tanks and 18-wheelers exploded at a gas plant south of downtown Dallas, sending thick plumes of black smoke and chunks of debris flying into the air. Two people suffered burns and a third sustained a back injury; all are said to be in stable condition, the Dallas Morning News reports.

An initial truck fire inside of a loading dock ignited a store of oxygen, helium, and acetylene tanks, setting off a series of blasts. 75 firefighters and 20 pieces of equipment were sent in to quench the fires but couldn't get into the area. Authorities are concerned the explosion may have poisoned the air, but industry experts say it's unlikely.

Dallas fire personnel respond to a fire at a  gas facility  in Dallas,  Wendesday, July 25, 2007. A series of explosions at a gas facility sent flaming debris raining onto highways and buildings near downtown Wednesday and seriously injured at least two people. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Dallas fire personnel respond to a fire at a gas facility in Dallas, Wendesday, July 25, 2007. A series of explosions at a gas facility sent flaming debris raining onto highways and buildings near...   (Associated Press)
Southwest Industrial Gases Inc. smolders near downtown Dallas, Wednesday, July 25, 2007. A series of explosions at the gas facility sent flaming debris raining down onto highways and buildings near downtown Wednesday. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
Southwest Industrial Gases Inc. smolders near downtown Dallas, Wednesday, July 25, 2007. A series of explosions at the gas facility sent flaming debris raining down onto highways and buildings near downtown...   (Associated Press)
People watch after a series of explosions at a gas facility sent flaming debris raining onto highways and buildings near downtown Dallas Wednesday, July 25, 2007. Authorities evacuated a half-mile  area surrounding the Southwest Industrial Gases, Inc. facility and shut down parts nearby Interstates 30 and 35.  (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
People watch after a series of explosions at a gas facility sent flaming debris raining onto highways and buildings near downtown Dallas Wednesday, July 25, 2007. Authorities evacuated a half-mile area...   (Associated Press)
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