Lewiston, Idaho – Opening Saturday, December 2025.
One person has died after U-Haul truck explosion vandalized a parking lot lewiston, idahoDamage to nearby businesses including Courtyard Marriott and one old NavyAccording to local officials. Officials say it appears the blast was accidental and not criminal in nature.
The incident has prompted an ongoing investigation by fire and police officials as the community demands answers.
What happened
according to Lewiston Fire Department and this Lewiston City Police DepartmentThe blast occurred early Saturday morning in a parking lot near several commercial buildings.
officials said a U-Haul truck appears to have accidentally explodedA powerful explosion occurred which damaged structures in the immediate radius. Despite the intensity of the explosion, There was no fire after the explosionWhich investigators say is unusual but possible based on the ingredients involved.
Emergency crews responded quickly and secured the area as debris was scattered across the scene.
Background of the incident
Fire officials revealed this U-Haul truck was transporting stored materialsInvolved flammable items such as gasoline and propane tanksInvestigators believe that the combination of these materials likely contributed to the explosion,
lewiston fire marshal Julien Sorel Confirmed that preliminary findings do not indicate foul play.
“At this time, there is no indication that the incident is of a criminal nature,” Sorel said in an official statement.
The identity of the deceased person has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
inquiry details
Officials are continuing the investigation:
- Exact cause of U-Haul truck explosion
- How flammable materials were stored and protected
- Were safety protocols followed
Officials stressed that the cause of the explosion significant structural damageThere were no additional fires, which helped prevent further injuries or deaths.
The parking lot and surrounding area were temporarily closed as investigators worked the scene.
Public and community reactions
news of Lewiston U-Haul explosion Spread rapidly, residents expressed surprise and concern at how close the explosion occurred to hotels and retail businesses.
Many members of the community took to social media to express condolences to the victim’s family and expressed gratitude that the incident did not occur during rush hours, which could have resulted in additional casualties.
Official statement and what happens next
Lewiston Fire Department And Lewiston Police Department It is said that the investigation remains active. Additional updates are expected as officials determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the explosion.
Officials are also reminding the public about the dangers of transporting flammable materials without proper safety measures.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact local authorities.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.