A major fire erupted near El Paso International Airport on Tuesday afternoon following a suspected vehicle explosion at the Sun Metro Transit Operations Center. Over 100 firefighters and 40 units battled the blaze, which was initially classified as a condition 4 fire – indicating a high level of danger and potential for rapid spread – before being upgraded to a second alarm fire, necessitating additional resources.

Seven individuals were assessed for injuries, with four transported to local hospitals. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported. Local news outlet KFOX14 reported that the explosion originated from a vehicle, potentially within the Sun Metro facility itself, causing the building's roof and walls to collapse.

By 7 p.m., firefighters had successfully extinguished the main fire and were working to contain any remaining hot spots. Fire investigators are currently on-site to determine the exact cause of the incident. The El Paso Police Department assisted with the response and urged the public to avoid the area. Road closures are in effect at Montana Avenue and Wedgewood Drive.

El Paso's strategic communications director, Laura Cruz Acosta, issued a statement acknowledging the limited information currently available about the fire's origin and emphasizing the priority of containing the blaze and ensuring the safety of personnel. She expressed gratitude for the rapid response of first responders. Importantly, airport operations remain unaffected by the incident.