New video shows the moment the Sandman Signature Hotel explosion shook downtown Fort Worth.
Surveillance footage from the law firm of O'Hanlon, Demeras & Castillo, located across the street from the hotel, showed a flash of light as the explosion occurred, followed by a loud bang that shook the building.
“I really didn't know what was going on,” said witness Joseph Curry. “It looked like a bomb had gone off, but in essence it was something very similar to that.”
Curry, who lives and works downtown, turned the corner and saw Houston Street covered in debris from the explosion and two people bleeding from the impact being helped by emergency workers.
“Away from the scene, there was a gentleman being helped by police officers. He was kind of covered in blood,” Curry said. “It looked pretty rough.”
The Fort Worth Fire Chief told NBC 5 that roads around the hotel could remain closed for several days as investigators continue to search and clean the area.
Mr Curry was unable to access his building until Monday night and is now considering any lingering effects on his management.
“No one is making a paycheck right now because there's nothing but business under my building and no one can work today,” Curry said.
More collateral damage: Plans for the opening weekend of the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.
Saturday morning's parade route was scheduled to take the portion of Houston Street that passes in front of the hotel.
“We remain in close contact with Fort Worth city officials regarding the tragedy at the Sandman Signature Hotel and the potential impact on the Stock Show Parade scheduled for Saturday, January 13th.” organizers said in a statement.
“Our hope is that the parade will be held as planned, recognizing the importance of the ongoing investigation into the incident and the need to ensure the safety of parade spectators and participants.”
“As soon as decisions regarding the parade are made, participants and the public will be notified,” the statement concluded.
City leaders said they planned to meet Wednesday to discuss possible changes to the parade's plans due to the investigation into the explosion.
