Phoenix Propane Fire Victims Await Insurance Answers Almost Two Months After Blaze
Phoenix, Arizona — Almost two months have passed since a massive propane fire engulfed dozens of cars near the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, leaving frustrated vehicle owners waiting for insurance answers and facing the aftermath of the devastating blaze.
The Incident and Lingering Questions
The fiery incident occurred near 40th and Washington Streets at Bill’s Propane Service on July 20. The fire’s intensity caused propane tanks to be propelled yards away, with flames reaching the adjacent Sundance Airport Parking lot. The exact cause of the blaze remains uncertain, leaving car owners like Kimberly Sparkman grappling with the aftermath and uncertainty.
Kimberly Sparkman was one of the affected car owners who voiced her frustration with the lack of clarity regarding insurance coverage. “We were told it was going to take two to three weeks. It’s been five weeks, and there are no answers,” Sparkman expressed. She and numerous others await a resolution on whose insurance will cover their claims.
Challenges of Insurance Coverage
Sparkman, who lost her vehicle in the fire, emphasized the challenges faced by those affected. She shared her realization of having liability coverage on her car but had not anticipated leaving it parked and having it caught in a fire. The absence of clear answers and prolonged waiting periods have only added to the uncertainty for car owners seeking resolution.
Statements from Involved Parties
Bill’s Propane Service, where the fire originated, released a statement indicating that their facility had not been operational for several hours before the ignition. The report also emphasized that no personnel were present on-site during that period. The company maintained that no evidence suggests the fire’s source was on their property or linked to their operations. The Phoenix Fire Department, although still finalizing its report, expressed no indications of intentional arson as the cause of the fire.
Seeking Clarity and Resolution
Kimberly Sparkman expressed her desire for answers and the need for insurance companies to address the situation. “I’m not blaming anybody for this. It’s a horrible situation. Ultimately, we all have insurance for a reason, and insurance needs to… somebody’s insurance needs to pay,” she stated.
As the affected car owners await clarity on insurance coverage, the incident underscores the importance of responsive and transparent insurance processes, particularly in the aftermath of unexpected and destructive events.
