Propane Explosion at Florida City Business Injures 10 and Causes Roof Collapse: Legal Options for Victims

On the morning of Saturday, May 25, 2025, a powerful propane explosion rocked a strip mall in Florida City, a suburb in the Miami area. The blast occurred around 8:51 a.m. at a location formerly known as Palm Bakery, located at 941 West Palm Drive. The explosion caused a fire and partial roof collapse, resulting in at least 10 individuals being hospitalized, according to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue.

Authorities say two victims suffered traumatic injuries and were rushed to a nearby trauma center, while six others were transported with less severe injuries. Two additional people reportedly took themselves to a hospital before first responders arrived. Emergency crews, including canine search teams and more than two dozen rescue units, scoured the scene to ensure no one remained trapped under debris. As of Saturday afternoon, no additional victims had been found.

The cause of the propane explosion is still under investigation, and the Miami-Dade Unsafe Structures unit has been notified to assess the building’s structural stability. The full extent of the property damage has not yet been disclosed.

Incidents involving propane or gas explosions can result in catastrophic injuries, structural damage, and even loss of life. Victims of such events often suffer from:

• Severe burns and scarring
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Crush injuries from structural collapse
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• Long-term medical expenses and rehabilitation needs

Common Causes of Propane Explosions

When an explosion like this occurs, determining the underlying cause is critical for identifying who may be legally responsible. Common sources of liability in propane-related incidents include:

• Improper storage or handling of propane tanks
• Gas line leaks or faulty connections
• Negligent maintenance by property owners or tenants
• Defective products or equipment
• Failure to inspect or repair known hazards

Once the cause is determined, victims may have grounds to pursue a personal injury or premises liability claim against those responsible for the explosion, such as business operators, building owners, propane suppliers, or equipment manufacturers.

Who Could Be Held Liable For a Propane Explosion in Florida?

Depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation, multiple parties could be held accountable for the injuries and damage caused by the blast. These may include:

• The property owner or landlord for failing to maintain safe premises or ignoring hazards involving propane storage
• A business tenant or operator if they mishandled gas equipment or failed to properly maintain appliances
• A gas company or propane distributor if faulty installation, defective tanks, or lack of inspection contributed to the explosion
• A manufacturer if defective valves, connectors, or propane-powered appliances were involved

Liability in explosion cases can be complex and often involves extensive forensic analysis, fire investigation experts, and evidence preservation.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling complex cases involving explosions, fire-related injuries, and premises liability throughout South Florida. Our legal team can assist victims and families in understanding their legal rights and pursuing full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

If you have questions or were affected by this tragedy, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a free and confidential consultation. Call us at (305) 638-4143 or complete our online form.