Explosion at Downtown Houston Hotel Construction Site Leaves Several Injured

Several injuries have been reported after an explosion occurred on Thursday, October 2^nd inside a downtown Houston high-rise that is still under construction, according to fire officials. As of Thursday morning, emergency crews remain on scene.

The Houston Fire Department reported that the blast happened shortly after 11 a.m. at 1319 Texas Avenue near Austin Street, just steps from Discovery Green. The site is a 17-story Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites hotel, a 275-room project that broke ground in October 2023 and was scheduled to open this month.

What We Know So Far

Officials say the explosion happened in a boiler room located near the top floors of the tower. The force of the blast blew out sections of windows and exterior siding, and aerial footage from local news sources showed roof damage and debris scattered onto the streets below.

Residents nearby reported hearing a “loud boom” and seeing “glass raining down,” while workers at the site reportedly fled the building.

The Houston Fire Department confirmed that six people were transported to Memorial Hermann in the Texas Medical Center with injuries including burns, cuts, and lacerations. Communications Director Brant Taylor noted that none of the injuries appear to be life-threatening, and no fatalities have been reported. All six of the injured people are believed to be construction workers who were working at the site.

Houston officials are asking drivers to steer clear of the area while crews continue working to secure the site.

What Comes Next

Firefighters and investigators are continuing to inspect the structure to determine the cause of the explosion, as well as monitor for additional hazards. This is a developing story; updates will be provided as more information becomes available.