Additional Coverage:
- One person killed after U-Haul truck explodes in Idaho retail shopping center parking lot (foxnews.com)
LEWISTON, ID – A tragic incident unfolded early Saturday morning in a Lewiston parking lot, claiming the life of one individual following a U-Haul truck explosion. Authorities have identified the deceased as Douglas Petersen, 61.
The blast occurred around 7:15 a.m. in the parking lot of the Old Navy store, located just across the state line from Washington. Preliminary findings from investigators suggest the explosion was accidental.
According to a joint statement from the Lewiston Police Department and Lewiston Fire Department, the U-Haul truck appeared to be transporting various stored materials, including gasoline and propane tanks. Lewiston Fire Marshal Julian Sorrell stated, “At this time, there is no indication the incident is criminal in nature.”
While no fire immediately broke out after the explosion, the force of the blast caused damage to nearby businesses, including the Old Navy store and the Courtyard Marriott.
Officials have assured the public there is no immediate threat, but they are requesting that residents and visitors steer clear of the area. This will allow emergency crews and investigators to safely continue their work.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with multiple agencies responding to the scene. These include the Lewiston Fire Department, Lewiston Police Department, Idaho State Police, the City of Lewiston Streets Division, and Nez Perce County officials.