The examination of the scene was conducted using a systematic approach using a basic method of fire investigation and scientific methodology outlined by the consensus committee of the 2024 edition of NFPA 921, “A Guide for Fire Explosion Investigation,” and the 2022 edition of NFPA 1033, “Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigators,” and other treatises as needed.
Based on the information available at this time and after conducting a systematic scene examination, inspecting the physical evidence, and considering witness observations, I was able to determine that the fire and explosions originated inside the structure in bay #26. Upon conclusion of the forensic origin and cause examination, the cause of the fire and subsequent explosions was determined to be a compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinder that was punctured by an adjacent control panel for a hydraulic lift, as a Sun Metro bus unintentionally fell off a hydraulic lift. This mechanical breach resulted in the uncontrolled release of flammable gas. The resulting mechanical friction and/or electrical current ignited the gas-air mixture, triggering a deflagration event and multiple explosions.
This fire is classified as UNINTENTIONAL AS PER NFPA 901. This case is CLOSED.