HFD arson investigators say fire intentionally set at bar that exploded in Museum District Friday morning

HOUSTON – Houston Fire Department arson investigators say a fire was intentionally set at a bar in Houston’s Museum District Friday morning. Bar 5015 exploded in the early hours of Friday morning.

While gas cans were found at the scene Friday, arson investigators say they are still investigating if they were used in setting the fire.

The explosion was reported at 4:48 a.m. at Bar 5015 at 5015 Almeda Road near the Museum District.

Firefighters said that when they arrived at the scene they saw a debris field and several small fires. Those blazes were extinguished within five minutes, firefighters said.

The FBI and ATF agents are assisting with the investigation on the Bar 5015 explosion on June 12, 2020. (HPD)

Splintered wood and other debris were scattered down the street and up the block from the bar. Police said a food truck near the area was also destroyed. Some buildings near the scene sustained damage as well.

Agents from both the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting Houston police and firefighters with the investigation. Firefighters said that although gas cans were found at the scene, it is not yet clear if an accelerant was used to cause the blast.

Authorities said no injuries have been reported at this time.


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