A recent explosion at The Clyde apartments in Dallas has drawn significant attention, particularly due to the involvement of a Waymo autonomous vehicle that obstructed emergency responders. Body camera footage from a Dallas County deputy constable reveals the challenges faced by first responders as they rushed to the scene of the deadly incident.
The explosion, classified as a five-alarm gas blast, tragically resulted in the deaths of three individuals and left five others injured. The incident prompted a swift response from over 100 firefighters who battled the flames engulfing the apartment complex.
In the released body camera video, Deputy Constable Jonathan Banda is seen attempting to maneuver a driverless Waymo vehicle that was partially blocking the access route needed for fire trucks. The autonomous vehicle was reportedly in the midst of executing a three-point turn when Banda approached it.
In the footage, Banda expresses urgency, instructing the vehicle to move aside as emergency sirens approach. After contacting a Waymo representative via the vehicle’s support system, he learned that the vehicle was experiencing a minor technical issue. Banda then requested manual control of the vehicle, stating, “If I can manually move it, I’ll move it.” Eventually, the Waymo employee granted access, allowing him to reposition the vehicle to clear the way for firefighters.
“I knew I had to clear the way for the firefighters coming in. I could hear the sirens coming in,” Banda told reporters. His quick action facilitated the arrival of emergency services at a critical time.
In response to the incident, Waymo acknowledged the collaboration between their remote assistance team and law enforcement. The company emphasized its commitment to safety and the need for effective interaction between autonomous vehicles and first responders. They confirmed that their team is dedicated to ensuring first responders are equipped to handle situations involving their vehicles during emergencies.
The explosion at The Clyde apartments occurred near East 9th Street and North Patton Avenue, where significant damage was reported. Eyewitness accounts described a loud boom and subsequent shaking of nearby buildings, as flames consumed the 22-unit structure. Authorities confirmed that a gas leak had been reported shortly before the explosion, which was exacerbated by damage to a pipeline caused by a construction crew unrelated to the gas company.
The incident remains under investigation as Dallas officials shift their focus to recovery efforts and the safety of residents in the area.
