‘We’re wishing for his speedy recovery’: Explosion in Clewiston Holiday Inn parking lot injures guest
Explosion in Clewiston Holiday Inn parking lot injures guest, a shocking event that left many in disbelief. In a moment caught on the hotel’s surveillance footage, a man tasked with unloading equipment from his truck suddenly finds himself propelled backward by an unexpected and violent blast. The aftermath shows the truck’s bed topper mangled, a stark reminder of the incident’s severity.
Listening to Fire Chief Travis Reese, he outlines the chaos that ensued. “Around five o’clock Wednesday afternoon, we began receiving multiple calls about the explosion. Upon our arrival, we discovered an adult male in the lobby, visibly shaken and suffering from injuries to his torso and face,” Reese recounted.
Residents of Clewiston, a small yet vibrant town, can share in his sentiment as they process the seriousness of the situation. This isn’t just a local news story; it resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the ground shake beneath their feet or heard a loud bang that pricked their heart with fear.
As Travis Reese explained, the injuries sustained by the man were critical, with burns and impact wounds requiring an urgent airlift to St. Mary’s Hospital in West Palm Beach. While the hospital withheld the man’s name, a small sense of community arose, uniting his coworkers and neighbors in wishing for his swift recovery.
Focused on his work, the man was in Clewiston for a temporary assignment, checking inventory on fire suppression devices known as “squibs.” “Each one of them could injure a hand, but this blast involved around 147 of them,” said Reese, painting a vivid picture of how catastrophic this incident was. The explosion resonated across the streets, an echo that still lingers in the minds of those who heard it.
In an unexpected twist, Reese emphasized that such accidents are relatively rare. The equipment is designed to be stable, trusted by industries from aviation to hospitality. The investigation revealed shards of undetonated explosives—a grim reminder of the potential hazards lurking in everyday items. A bomb squad was summoned for safe disposal, adding a sense of urgency amid the unfolding drama.
“We’re fortunate no one else was involved, and my thoughts are with the injured man,” Reese added. His words captured the collective hope of a tight-knit community, often defined by such dramatic events.
The rush of emergency responders transformed the serene hotel façade into a scene of meticulous investigation and care. Despite the chaos, the Holiday Inn continued its operations, reminding guests that their safety remained a priority. Although this incident was contained, it sparked conversations around safety protocols and awareness in similar environments.
The Clewiston Police Department continues its investigation into the explosion. According to Police Chief Thomas Lewis, they are piecing together what led to the blast and keeping the community informed about safety measures. In a moment captured on video, red boxes held the promise of security but became vessels of danger instead.
As people digested the day’s events, there were minor moments of levity—a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the Clewiston community embodies resilience. Everyone is pulling together, waiting patiently for updates on the man’s condition while hoping for brighter tomorrows.
While many residents remained vigilant, facing uncertainty head-on, the ATF, along with the State Fire Marshal, cast their eyes on the evolving situation, determined to uncover the truth. Even in challenging times, the commitment to safety and emergency preparedness stands firm.
In the heart of Clewiston, where local businesses thrive and community spirit reigns, this incident serves as a compelling reminder that life, much like the devices of fire suppression, has its own volatility. And so, everyone—first responders, hotel guests, and residents alike—continue to hope, wishing for healing and the return to peace.
The Holiday Inn remains operational, reaffirming its commitment to safety while standing as a symbol of resilience amidst adversity.
