Investigators say acetylene cylinder fueled fatal Fairway Drive explosion
Investigators say an acetylene cylinder stored in a vehicle trunk fueled the fatal May 28 explosion and fire on Fairway Drive in Las Cruces.
Las Cruces fire investigators and the ATF determined the May 28 explosion was accidental, though they could not conclusively identify the ignition source.
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - An acetylene cylinder stored inside the trunk of a vehicle fueled the May 28 explosion and residential fire on Fairway Drive that killed one person, Las Cruces officials said Monday.
Investigators from the Las Cruces Fire Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives determined the explosion originated inside the trunk of a vehicle parked in the home’s garage. Investigators classified the incident as accidental but could not conclusively determine what ignited the explosion.
Officials said the acetylene cylinder had reportedly been borrowed and was being stored temporarily inside the vehicle. Evidence indicates the victim was inside the vehicle and preparing to leave when the explosion occurred.
Officials have not positively identified the victim. The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator received the remains and will determine the official cause and manner of death as it continues its investigation.
Investigators also learned that carbon monoxide alarms inside the garage had reportedly activated earlier on the morning of the explosion. Certain combustible gases can activate some carbon monoxide alarms, officials said.
Investigators could not determine whether those alarm activations were directly connected to an acetylene leak. Officials urged residents to take unexpected alarm activations seriously and investigate them promptly.
Acetylene is a highly flammable gas commonly used in welding and cutting operations. Fire officials said people should secure acetylene cylinders upright, store them in well-ventilated areas and keep them away from heat and ignition sources.
Officials warned residents never to store acetylene cylinders inside enclosed vehicles or other confined spaces, where leaking gas can accumulate and create an explosive atmosphere.
Residents in neighboring homes who were temporarily displaced after the explosion have been allowed to return.
Officials said the investigation remains open pending completion of the Medical Investigator’s report, although investigators have determined the explosion and fire were accidental.
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