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Denver Explosions Injure Three, Spark Xcel Energy Scrutiny

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/2 .. ons-injure-three-spark-xcel-energy-scrutiny.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 17:06 GMT by CBS News
      Locales: Colorado, UNITED STATES

DENVER, CO - January 28, 2026 - A series of explosions and fires ripped through the Denver and Lakewood, Colorado, metropolitan area late Tuesday night, leaving at least three people injured and raising serious questions about the integrity of regional gas infrastructure. The incidents, originating with reported gas leaks, have prompted an immediate investigation into Xcel Energy, the primary gas provider for the region, and are fueling public anxieties about safety protocols.

The first explosion occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday in the 1700 block of South Nevada Street in Denver. Firefighters responding to reports of a suspected gas leak arrived to find a house engulfed in flames, the fire quickly spreading to adjacent properties. Witnesses described a powerful blast. "The explosion was really loud, shook the whole house," recounted Carlos, a local resident who requested anonymity. "I saw the fire, big flames coming out of the house. It was scary." Two individuals sustained injuries in the Denver blast and were transported to local hospitals. Their conditions are currently unknown.

Shortly after the Denver incident, authorities received reports of a separate fire in Lakewood, just a few miles away. This second fire, also suspected to be linked to a gas leak, resulted in one injury. The proximity of the two incidents, and the shared potential cause, immediately led investigators to consider a systemic issue rather than isolated occurrences.

Xcel Energy Under Scrutiny

Xcel Energy released a brief statement acknowledging the incidents and pledging cooperation with the ongoing investigation. "We are aware of the incidents and are working to fully understand what occurred," the statement read. "Our top priority is the safety of our customers and communities, and we are committed to ensuring the safe delivery of energy." However, this reassurance has done little to quell the rising tide of public concern. Residents are increasingly vocal about perceived inaction on previous complaints regarding gas odors.

Multiple neighbors have come forward, alleging they reported suspicious gas smells to Xcel Energy in the months leading up to the explosions. "We've been smelling gas for a long time," stated another anonymous neighbor. "We reported it, but nothing was done. It's frustrating and scary to think that something like this could happen." These accounts suggest a potential pattern of delayed or inadequate responses to safety warnings, adding fuel to the growing criticism of Xcel Energy's maintenance and response procedures.

PUC Investigation Expected The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is widely expected to launch a formal investigation into Xcel Energy's practices. The investigation will likely focus on the company's procedures for handling leak reports, the frequency and thoroughness of infrastructure inspections, and the effectiveness of its emergency response protocols. The PUC's mandate includes ensuring the safety and reliability of utility services, and these recent events clearly demonstrate a potential failure in that regard.

Experts predict the investigation will delve into the age and condition of the gas lines in the affected areas. Older infrastructure is prone to corrosion and leaks, particularly in regions with fluctuating temperatures and soil conditions. The commission may also examine whether Xcel Energy adequately invested in upgrades and preventative maintenance to address these risks.

Community Impact and Future Concerns

The damage from the fires extends beyond physical injuries and property damage. The events have shaken the sense of security within the affected communities. Residents are understandably anxious about the possibility of further incidents and are demanding answers about the steps being taken to prevent future occurrences. Local officials have promised to provide regular updates as the investigation progresses.

The incident highlights a broader national conversation about aging infrastructure and the critical need for investment in upgrading utility systems. Similar incidents have occurred across the country, raising concerns about the vulnerability of gas pipelines and the potential for catastrophic consequences. The Colorado explosions serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance, timely response to safety concerns, and robust regulatory oversight.