Omaha man critically injured after propane tank explodes

Aug 09, 2023

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

One person was critically injured after a propane tank exploded at a building in Omaha on Monday.

Crews responded to reports of an explosion near North 30th and Taylor streets, according to authorities.

The victim suffered burns was transported to a local hospital in critical condition with traumatic injuries, authorities said.

Investigators said the explosion was caused by a forklift operator piercing a propane tank.

The building, which is an Omaha Public Schools storage facility, contains other supplies — including more propane bottles that were unharmed.

"While employment privacy laws prevent us from sharing specifics, Omaha Public Schools has been in contact with the family of the staff member who was injured. We care deeply about our staff and will continue to provide support as needed," the district said in a statement.

An engineer will check the structure after other people said they felt the blast.

A witness told KETV NewsWatch 7 that they heard what sounded like a "sonic boom."

Metropolitan Utilities District and Omaha Public Power District cut off gas and power as investigators continue to assess the building.

Investigators said the explosion blew the doors off the garage.

Scene of a propane tank explosion off 30th and Ames Monday. Officials say one person was sent to the hospital after the tank exploded in his face. Hardware store employee nearby says they heard what sounded like a sonic boom. @KETV pic.twitter.com/5gZrXlI03V

Get the latest headlines from KETV NewsWatch 7