Oak Cliff residents say life is still disrupted after deadly explosion

Residents say they are waiting for utilities to be restored and are still being asked to pay rent after a deadly explosion.

The investigation into Thursday’s deadly explosion at the former Clyde Apartments in Oak Cliff has entered a new phase as crews move closer to the blast site.

Atmos crews were seen working throughout the area as neighbors nearby said they are still waiting for answers and for basic services to be restored.

Wen Becerra lives in the apartment complex behind where the Clyde Apartments once stood.

“We can't cook, we can't do anything,” Becerra said.

Becerra said the explosion shattered multiple windows at his apartment, which are now boarded up. He said gas service, hot water and air conditioning have not been restored.

“We don't have no hot water, we have no gas, no AC, nothing, nothing at all,” Becerra said.

As crews continue inspections and digging in the area, tenants said questions remain about safety, utilities and what comes next. Becerra said one message from management has been clear.

“They want us to pay the rent, but obviously I don't want to pay anything because that's unacceptable for them,” Becerra said.

NBC DFW reached out to the attorney representing the owner of the neighboring apartments and is waiting for a response.

For many neighbors, the investigation is not only about what caused the explosion — it is also about when life can return to normal.

“We don't feel like it's safe to stay here, so we're trying to see if we can go somewhere else,” said another resident living in a neighboring property.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC DFW. AI tools helped convert the story into a digital article, and an NBC DFW journalist edited it again before publication.