Sun Metro Strengthens CNG Safety After Fatal Blast
Two Sun Metro workers killed when CNG bus fell from lift, punctured fuel cylinder
CNG Bus Blast Kills 2 at El Paso Garage
Two Sun Metro employees died when a compressed natural gas bus exploded at the agency's East El Paso maintenance facility on February 11, 2025. Ruben Ibarra and German Garcia were killed in the blast, which also injured multiple workers and caused severe structural damage to the building. The catastrophic explosion occurred when a CNG bus fell from a hydraulic lift and struck a control panel, puncturing a fuel cylinder that ignited.
Investigation Rules Explosion Unintentional
The Fire Marshal's Office completed its investigation in mid-May 2025 and ruled the event unintentional. The incident triggered a two-alarm fire that ripped through work bays and collapsed sections of the roof and walls, leaving the facility severely damaged. CNG buses pose different risks than traditional diesel vehicles because the compressed gas can create explosive conditions when released in enclosed spaces. Transit agencies nationwide operate CNG fleets as cleaner alternatives to diesel, but the fuel requires specialized handling protocols and facility designs to prevent dangerous gas accumulation.
Safety Gaps Identified in Facility Design
Investigators emphasized the importance of proper ventilation, gas monitoring systems, and specialized worker training when maintaining alternative-fuel fleets. The explosion highlighted unique safety challenges of servicing CNG vehicles in enclosed maintenance bays, where gas leaks can quickly reach explosive concentrations. Officials didn't specify whether Sun Metro's facility had gas detection systems or enhanced ventilation designed for CNG operations. Transit safety experts say maintenance facilities built for diesel buses often lack the engineering controls needed to safely handle compressed natural gas vehicles.
Facility Repairs and Safety Review Underway
The city and Sun Metro continue to focus on stabilizing the damaged facility, coordinating insurance, and planning repairs. Officials haven't announced a timeline for when the maintenance building will return to full operation or disclosed the estimated cost of reconstruction. The agency didn't say whether buses are being serviced at alternate locations during repairs. Sun Metro also hasn't indicated whether it'll implement new safety measures or facility modifications before resuming CNG maintenance operations at the site.
Transit Industry Faces CNG Safety Questions
The fatal explosion serves as a reminder of enhanced safety measures needed in transit maintenance facilities operating CNG-powered fleets. Transit agencies across the country that operate alternative-fuel buses will likely review their own facility designs and maintenance protocols following the incident. Riders can continue using Sun Metro services, though officials haven't said whether the explosion affected the agency's ability to maintain its full fleet. Moovit provides real-time updates for Sun Metro routes and service alerts throughout El Paso.
