Tragedy struck early Saturday morning when a U-Haul truck exploded, resulting in the death of one individual, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred at approximately 7:15 a.m. in the parking lot of an Old Navy store in Lewiston, Idaho, just a stone’s throw from the Washington state border.
Initial investigations suggest that the explosion was an unfortunate accident. According to a joint statement released by the Lewiston Police Department and the Lewiston Fire Department, the truck was loaded with various stored materials, including gasoline and propane tanks, which likely contributed to the blast.
Lewiston Fire Marshal Julian Sorrell assured the public that, as of now, there is no evidence pointing to any criminal activity related to the explosion. “At this time, there is no indication the incident is criminal in nature,” Sorrell stated, attempting to alleviate any concerns of foul play.
Investigators say the truck appeared to be carrying stored materials, including gasoline and propane tanks, according to a joint statement from the Lewiston Police Department and Lewiston Fire Department.
One person is dead following a U-Haul truck explosion Saturday in Idaho, authorities said. (Lewiston Fire Department )
“At this time, there is no indication the incident is criminal in nature,” Lewiston Fire Marshal Julian Sorrell said in a statement.
The explosion caused damage to nearby businesses, including Old Navy and the Courtyard Marriott. No fire erupted following the blast, officials said.
Multiple agencies responded to the scene, Saturday, in Lewiston, Idaho. (Lewiston Fire Department )
Officials said there is no immediate threat to the public, but are asking residents and visitors to avoid the area “to allow emergency crews and investigators to safely complete their work.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
The explosion caused damage to nearby businesses, including Old Navy and the Courtyard Marriott, Saturday, in Lewiston, Idaho. (Lewiston Fire Department )
Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Lewiston Fire Department, Lewiston Police Department, Idaho State Police, the City of Lewiston Streets Division, and Nez Perce County officials.
On Thursday, a home explosion near Hayward in the San Francisco Bay Area left six people hospitalized.
