DENVER — An explosion at a southeast Denver assisted living facility has left the structure closed indefinitely, officials reported Wednesday. The blast, which occurred at the Eastern Star Masonic Retirement Campus, resulted in hospitalizations for eight individuals and the displacement of nearly 90 residents.
The incident unfolded at the facility located on 2445 S Quebec Street, according to the Denver Fire Department. Early investigations suggest that the explosion was triggered by a construction-related mishap where a power line was inadvertently struck, leading to both the explosion and a subsequent transformer fire.
Authorities, including the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, are continuing their inquiry into the exact causes of the blast to prevent future occurrences.
A representative from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment shared that both residents and staff members were among the hospitalized, though specific details concerning their personal health remain confidential. Following the disaster, many of the displaced residents were accommodated at nearby senior living facilities.
Sara Thorp, whose grandmother was affected by the incident, expressed mixed feelings about the support from the displaced facility. Although her grandmother was securely relocated to Woodland Estates Senior Living, Thorp noted a lack of communication from Eastern Star. “It’s comforting to know she is in good hands now, but a direct update from Eastern Star would have been appreciated,” Thorp mentioned.
The support from Woodland Estates extends through the payment of March’s rent originally intended for Eastern Star, ensuring Thorp’s grandmother can stay at the new facility until the end of the month at least. However, the long-term arrangements remain uncertain.
Thorp further highlighted the personal impact of the blast, revealing that her grandmother’s room still contains many personal items, now inaccessible within the closed-off building. “Those belongings are her connection to past memories. It’s very tough knowing she is separated from them,” she added.
As the Eastern Star Masonic Retirement Campus remains shuttered with ongoing investigations, affected families, like Thorp’s, face the daunting task of planning future accommodations under uncertain circumstances. Thorp concluded, “We’re taking it step by step. My main concern is that my grandmother continues to feel safe and cared for during this unsettling time.”
Meanwhile, the facility has not issued any statements regarding the incident or its future operational plans. With many residents in limbo, the community watches closely, hoping for speedy resolutions and clear communication in the days to come.