PEARLAND, Texas – Seven people are recovering Monday morning after a bonfire in Pearland ended in an explosion, leaving one person in critical condition.
The incident happened around 9:10 p.m. Sunday near a mobile home on Libby Lane, according to the Pearland Fire Department.
Neighbors say they heard a loud boom before emergency crews rushed to the scene.
When firefighters arrived, they found seven people suffering from burn injuries near a fire pit outside the home. One person was listed in critical condition, while two others suffered major burns.
Video from the scene shows the aftermath of the explosion, including burnt clothing, shoes, a belt, and what appears to be a melted gas can near the fire pit.
Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
However, neighbors told KPRC 2 that a father and several children were involved, and claimed the explosion may have happened after a can of gasoline was thrown into the bonfire.
Authorities have not confirmed that information.
Emergency radio traffic indicated that Life Flight was requested, though it’s unclear how many people were transported by helicopter.
The Pearland Fire Department has not said whether any charges or citations are expected.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing as they work to learn more about what led to the explosion and the current conditions of those injured.