More than 100 Propane Tanks Explode During Fire

BIBB COUNTY, AL
March 31, 2025

The Brent Volunteer Fire Department responded to a fire that erupted at AmeriGas in Centreville on Friday where more than 100 propane tanks exploded during the fire.

According to Brent Fire Public Information Officer Jason Elam, agencies with Brent and Centreville Fire were dispatched at approximately 2:20 p.m. to 331 Belcher Street in Centreville at the AmeriGas location.

The preliminary investigation reveals that a worker was removing residual gas from a tank when the fire started. The worker quickly alerted employees on site, and the area was evacuated with no injuries reported.

The explosion caused some tanks to be lofted across the facility’s parking lot.

The main building of AmeriGas remained largely undamaged, but Elam says the incident raised concerns due to its proximity to the Cahaba Medical Care and Bibb Medical Center facilities.

Elam says he believes discussions will likely take place regarding the safety implications of the AmeriGas location in relation to the medical facilities following this incident.

At this time, the cause of the fire has yet to be determined.