Texas Tech University Fires & Explosions
By: Mateo Rosiles/ Lubbock Avalanche-Journal/ USA TODAY
Photos: Mateo Rosiles/ Avalanche-Journal
Days before Texas Tech University students were set to depart campus for spring break, a series of fires and explosions occurred around campus, sending most of it into darkness that would last for weeks and expediting students’ departures. Through a series of Open Records Requests and stories, we unraveled what happened that fateful night.
Part 1: Texas Tech University closes campus ahead of spring break after explosion triggers fires
A few days before spring break, Texas Tech’s campus in Lubbock erupted in green flames and purple smoke that plunged the campus in darkness.
Part 2: Texas Tech, Lubbock officials share early timeline of campus overnight fires, explosion
The next day after the Texas Tech fires, officials shed light on the preliminary findings of what happened the night before.
Part 3: 'Ground shaking': LFR documents detail response to Texas Tech fires, explosion
Through an Open Records Request, I was able to uncover the harrowing conditions local firefighters faced during the Texas Tech fires.
Part 4: TTU 2025 fires, explosions ruled an accident by fire marshals
Through an Open Records Request, I was able to discover the Texas State Fire Marshals’ findings and final ruling of the Texas Tech fires.