April 13, 2025 | Austin, TX — A powerful house explosion devastated a quiet Northwest Austin neighborhood Saturday afternoon, flattening one home, partially collapsing another, and causing widespread damage to nearby residences. The explosion, which occurred at the intersection of Bendridge Trail and Stonleigh Place, was felt for miles, sending shockwaves across the community.
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, where they discovered a chaotic debris field stretching across the block. A man and a woman pulled from the wreckage suffered critical burns to their upper bodies and faces. Neighbors, acting heroically, rushed to their aid — wrapping the victims in blankets and attempting to comfort them until medics arrived.
Multiple homes in the vicinity sustained significant structural damage, with some garage doors blown in and windows shattered from the force of the blast. Several vehicles were damaged, and residents reported the concussion lifted cars slightly off the ground.
“The blast was so strong, it knocked pictures off my walls and rattled the whole house,” said one neighbor, who lives two doors down. “I ran outside and saw smoke, debris, and people screaming. It was like a war zone.”
The Austin Fire Department quickly secured the area and launched an investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the explosion was caused by a buildup of natural gas inside the destroyed home. However, the exact source of the leak is still under investigation. Texas Gas Service is working alongside fire officials to inspect the area’s gas infrastructure and determine whether any larger issues exist.
Authorities have not released the names of the victims but confirmed they remain hospitalized in critical condition. Several other families were displaced due to damage to their homes, and community members are rallying together to offer temporary shelter and supplies.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by undetected gas leaks. Residents are being urged to report any gas odors or unusual activity around their homes.
More information will be released as the investigation continues. Emergency officials are asking the public to avoid the area while recovery and cleanup efforts are underway.
For tips or assistance related to this incident, call the Austin Fire Department non-emergency line or contact Texas Gas Service if you smell gas or detect unusual activity in your neighborhood.