Tag: Fire Investigation

Clovis, New Mexico: Suspect Charged in $42 Million Walmart Fire

In a shocking incident, a Walmart store in Clovis, New Mexico, was set ablaze, causing an estimated $42 million in damages. The alleged perpetrator, Jimmy Guillen, a 59-year-old man, now faces a slew of serious charges, including arson, tampering with evidence, aggravated burglary, and possession of a destructive device by a felon. On September 3,… Continue reading Clovis, New Mexico: Suspect Charged in $42 Million Walmart Fire

In a shocking incident, a Walmart store in Clovis, New Mexico, was set ablaze, causing an estimated $42 million in damages. The alleged perpetrator, Jimmy Guillen, a 59-year-old man, now faces a slew of serious charges, including arson, tampering with evidence, aggravated burglary, and possession of a destructive device by a felon.

On September 3, around 3:30 a.m., emergency responders were summoned to the Walmart located at 3728 Prince Street in Clovis. Upon arrival, they were met with a devastating sight: the entire building was engulfed in flames. The authorities quickly started looking into the matter.

Jimmy Guillen came under immediate scrutiny as he was spotted at a nearby Allsup’s convenience store shortly after the fire started. Observers noted that he had ash and soot on his clothing, further raising suspicions. However, despite initial concerns, Guillen was released from custody due to a lack of concrete evidence linking him to the fire.

Shortly after Guillen’s release, authorities received reports of an attempted arson at a nearby Lowe’s Home Improvement store. Security footage revealed Guillen trying to break into Lowe’s with a cinderblock and, in another video, holding a torch in his hand. Thankfully, this attempt was thwarted.

Upon closer examination of the charred Walmart, investigators uncovered several intact propane canisters in a lounge area. Perhaps the most disturbing discovery was a propane tank rigged as a makeshift pipe bomb. This device was found outside the store and was taped with a box, filled with beads, glass, rocks, and various sharp objects.

Security footage from Walmart showed Guillen grabbing propane tanks from the sporting goods section, damaging some with a hammer, and placing others near a torch with an open flame. The video evidence indicated that the fire ignited near one of these makeshift explosives. As the footage played on, the fire grew larger and more intense.

In the wake of this destructive incident, the cost of damages was estimated to be a staggering $42 million. The impact of this fire on the local community cannot be overstated, as it not only caused immense financial losses but also disrupted the lives of numerous individuals.

Fire Breaks Out at Olympic Fruit in Moxee, Washington, Prompting Shelter-in-Place Measures for Residents

MOXEE, Wash. – Olympic Fruit, located at 2400 Beaudry Road, became the site of a blazing structure fire on Friday, August 11. The East Valley Fire Department’s Chief Dale Hiole reported the coordinated efforts of multiple fire departments striving to confine the flames to the building. While the incident seems to have begun during the… Continue reading Fire Breaks Out at Olympic Fruit in Moxee, Washington, Prompting Shelter-in-Place Measures for Residents

MOXEE, Wash. – Olympic Fruit, located at 2400 Beaudry Road, became the site of a blazing structure fire on Friday, August 11. The East Valley Fire Department’s Chief Dale Hiole reported the coordinated efforts of multiple fire departments striving to confine the flames to the building. While the incident seems to have begun during the process of refilling a propane tank, investigations are still underway to ascertain the precise cause.

After an intense night of continuous burning, Yakima Valley Emergency Management revoked the shelter-in-place directives for residents living within a one-mile radius of the Olympic Fruit fire. The blaze, which persisted for hours, managed to remain confined within a single structure at the Olympic Fruit premises. Tony Miller from Yakima Valley Emergency Management reported that the roof of the building collapsed as a result of the fire’s intensity. The shelter-in-place directive was enacted as a preventive measure against potential seepage of anhydrous ammonia into the atmosphere. This chemical is integral to the cooling and refrigeration systems utilized within their warehouse. In a bid to ensure air quality, the Department of Ecology was scheduled to conduct air tests during the upcoming night.

NonStop Local’s personnel present at the scene confirmed the ongoing nature of the blaze. Miraculously, no injuries have been reported thus far, as corroborated by Miller. Residents were advised to secure windows and doors, seal any openings, and prevent outside air from entering due to the hazardous materials being consumed by the fire.

House Explosion Caused by Propane Tank in Old Saybrook, Connecticut

OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. – On Wednesday night, June 28, 2023, fire crews responded to a house explosion in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, leaving behind the charred remains of a home on Maple Avenue. Authorities believe the blast was triggered by a propane tank located on the property. First responders swiftly arrived to assess the situation and… Continue reading House Explosion Caused by Propane Tank in Old Saybrook, Connecticut

OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. – On Wednesday night, June 28, 2023, fire crews responded to a house explosion in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, leaving behind the charred remains of a home on Maple Avenue. Authorities believe the blast was triggered by a propane tank located on the property.

First responders swiftly arrived to assess the situation and provide necessary assistance. Fortunately, only one person sustained minor injuries in the explosion, and medical professionals anticipate a full recovery.

The Fire Marshal’s Office has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Their research aims to shed light on the incident’s circumstances and identify potential safety concerns related to the propane tank or its usage.

Instances like this serve as a reminder of the importance of propane safety and the need for individuals and businesses to take proactive measures to prevent such accidents. Companies, small business owners, and homeowners would be wise to avail themselves of safety training programs to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of both properties and occupants. The TankSpotter.com app offers valuable safety training resources, while PropaneSafetyPro.com provides expert safety consulting services. By prioritizing safety and following best practices, we can create a safer environment for everyone.

Propane Leak Suspected in Cape Cod House Explosion; Propane Safety Training Key to Prevention

In April, a devastating house explosion in Truro on Cape Cod shocked the community, leaving authorities searching for answers. Now, after a thorough investigation, officials believe they have uncovered the likely cause of the explosion. At approximately 11:15 p.m. on April 20, fire departments from across the Cape responded to a massive house fire triggered… Continue reading Propane Leak Suspected in Cape Cod House Explosion; Propane Safety Training Key to Prevention

In April, a devastating house explosion in Truro on Cape Cod shocked the community, leaving authorities searching for answers. Now, after a thorough investigation, officials believe they have uncovered the likely cause of the explosion.

At approximately 11:15 p.m. on April 20, fire departments from across the Cape responded to a massive house fire triggered by an explosion. According to a neighbor, Kristin Perry, the couple who owned the home, both in their 70s, were fortunately staying in a cottage behind the house that night. Perry recalled being abruptly awakened by a series of loud booms, including a particularly powerful explosion that created a mushroom cloud.

Authorities have now determined that a propane leak was the probable cause of the explosion, although a conclusive ruling on multiple potential causes was difficult due to the extensive damage.

An official press release stated, “Investigation revealed that the incident originated in the basement, near the left rear corner of the residence. In this area, a significantly damaged water heater and furnace were located.” The sequence of events leading to the explosion indicates that propane leaked into the basement and was subsequently ignited by either the water heater or furnace. The resulting fire and explosion ultimately led to the detonation of a 120-gallon propane tank.

Investigators have found no evidence of foul play or intentional fire setting in connection with the incident. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Upon thorough inspections, it was revealed that the propane tank, which was produced in 1989, had surpassed its scheduled requalification examination. Furthermore, the tank had been improperly filled with 5.5 gallons of propane, flagrantly violating the regulations outlined in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code.

This incident follows another house explosion that occurred just a week earlier in Berlin, Massachusetts, resulting in the tragic death of 79-year-old Judith “Judy” Christensen. While her daughter survived with non-life-threatening injuries, the incident underscores the urgency of proper safety measures.

To ensure the prevention of such accidents, it is vital to prioritize propane safety training and compliance. Be sure to consult the experts at propanesafetypro.com and propanesafetyapp.com. They can provide invaluable resources and training programs aimed at promoting awareness, mitigating risks, and adhering to propane safety guidelines.

By understanding and implementing propane safety protocols, we can protect lives and properties from the potential dangers associated with propane usage.