The FWSSR pays tribute to firefighters, police, and EMS personnel who responded to the downtown hotel explosion

During Military Appreciation Night at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo on Monday, another group of local heroes was recognized for their swift response to a critical situation in the community.

The event paid tribute to the first responders who bravely attended to the scene of the explosion at the Sandman Signature Hotel in downtown Fort Worth earlier this month.

Captain Ryan Pack of the Fort Worth Fire Department expressed his gratitude, stating, “All the firefighters that get involved in this line of work, you want to be a voice of help in a moment of crisis.”

On January 8, the explosion injured 21 individuals, prompting the closure of surrounding streets and businesses as investigators launched a comprehensive response to the incident. While suspected to involve natural gas, the investigation into the explosion’s cause is still ongoing.

Fort Worth firefighters, EMS personnel, and police officers sprang into action that day, providing aid to the injured and conducting rescues, including the extraction of a woman from the rubble hours after the blast.

Captain Pack emphasized the firefighters’ commitment to maintaining order amidst chaos, stating, “Because it’s your job to bring calm to the chaos.”

As part of the ceremony alongside Military Appreciation Night, a wagon carrying Fort Worth first responders circled the arena. This gesture allowed the community to express gratitude for the emergency personnel’s actions on January 8.

Acknowledging the recognition, Captain Pack expressed motivation to continue serving the community effectively. However, investigators have not disclosed a timeline for completing the investigation into the Sandman Signature Hotel explosion.