Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson released a statement on May 28 following an explosion and subsequent structure fire at an apartment complex in Oak Cliff.
According to Johnson, Dallas Fire-Rescue responded earlier in the day to a reported gas leak at the complex. As firefighters from Station 15 arrived, an explosion occurred, escalating the incident to a five-alarm response that required hundreds of personnel at the scene. “While the fire has been extinguished, recovery efforts continue. We do not yet know the final toll on this community, but it is already high. The survivors of this tragedy lost their homes and everything in them. And there are families grieving loved ones who perished,” Johnson said.
Johnson emphasized that those affected will have significant needs moving forward. “The most important thing we can—and must—do as a community right now is pray. We must pray for the individuals who tragically lost their lives, and we must pray for their families as they endure this unforeseen grief. We must pray for the injured, and we must pray for those who have lost their homes and their belongings,” he said.
Several partner organizations are assisting with recovery efforts, including Dallas ISD, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Family Gateway, and others providing food and donations to those impacted by the explosion. Many City of Dallas departments have also joined these efforts under leadership from the Office of Emergency Management.
Johnson recognized first responders for their actions during the emergency: “I want to recognize our Dallas firefighters and first responders whose bravery, heroism, and professionalism were on full display today. They were on the scene within minutes, contained the blaze, and spent hours bringing down the fire.” He added that rescue operations have transitioned into recovery and excavation phases, with teams expected onsite for at least 24 more hours.
