Truckload of Airbag Parts Explodes, Destroys House

A truck hauling a flatbed trailer full of airbag cartridges was traveling to the Takata plant in Eagle Pass, Texas on Highway 277. The truck left the roadway and caught fire.

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The driver and passenger were able to flee the truck before it exploded. The resulting blast completely leveled a nearby home, killing 69-year-old Lucila Robles.

Along with the two in the truck, an older couple was injured during the explosion. All four were transported to a hospital.

In all, the blast damaged ten nearby homes by breaking windows and knocking doors off hinges. Pieces of debris and truck parts were found at least a mile away from where the explosion occurred.

Takata released this statement:

“A truck carrying airbag inflators and propellant that was being operated by a subcontractor to Takata was involved in an accident. According to preliminary reports, the accident caused a fire, which led to an explosion. Takata immediately deployed personnel to the site and has been working closely with the subcontractor and the appropriate authorities to investigate this incident. Takata has strict safety procedures relating to the transportation of its products that meet or exceed all regulatory requirements. Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who died as a result of this accident, and with the four people injured, who were immediately transported to San Antonio for medical treatment.”