A Northeast Side neighborhood in San Antonio remains shaken after two powerful house explosions just hours apart left five people injured and forced multiple families from their homes. The blasts, which occurred near Preston Hollow Drive and Thousand Oaks Drive on the evening of April 22, 2026, are believed to be linked to a natural gas buildup, though the exact cause is still under investigation.
According to officials, the first explosion happened shortly after 6:00 p.m., followed by a second blast around 8:30 p.m.—even as emergency crews were already responding to the initial scene. The force of the explosions caused severe structural damage, with at least one home partially destroyed and others impacted in the surrounding area.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has since launched a full investigation, focusing on pipeline systems, environmental conditions, and potential human factors. Early indications suggest a gas leak may have contributed to the explosions, with local utility provider CPS Energy confirming that a source of the leak has been identified and secured. However, officials stress that determining the exact cause will take time, with a preliminary report expected within 30 days and a final report possibly taking up to two years.
Among those injured were members of a local family, including a youth pastor, his wife, and their teenage daughter. While some victims are reported to be in stable condition, others initially suffered critical injuries. In total, around 15 families were evacuated, and many remain displaced as safety assessments continue.
Residents have described the explosions as terrifying, comparing the sound to a “sonic boom” that shook entire homes. Witnesses reported scenes of chaos, with injured individuals calling for help and visible damage throughout the neighborhood. For many, the emotional impact lingers just as strongly as the physical destruction.
Fear and uncertainty now dominate the community, with several residents hesitant to return home. Without clear answers about the cause, many are choosing to stay elsewhere until authorities confirm the area is safe. Concerns have also been raised about aging gas infrastructure, with local officials calling for closer inspection and long-term improvements.
City leaders emphasize that the priority remains supporting affected families and ensuring public safety. Meanwhile, residents are being urged to remain vigilant—especially to leave immediately and seek help if they detect the smell of gas.
As investigations continue, the neighborhood faces a difficult wait for answers, safety assurances, and the chance to return to normalcy.
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