Search and rescue operations are underway in the aftermath of a powerful explosion that rocked a downtown Fort Worth hotel on Monday. As authorities work to secure the site, it has been declared a "hot zone" and closed off to the public until deemed safe, which could take several days.

As of Tuesday morning, no victims have been found amidst the wreckage, according to Fort Worth police spokesperson Jimmy Pollozani. However, search and rescue teams continue to comb through the remains in hopes of locating possible survivors. The toll of the injured stands at 21, with one person critically hurt and four others in serious condition. The remaining victims sustained minor injuries.

During Tuesday's Tarrant County Commissioners Court meeting, County Judge Tim O'Hare addressed the explosion, urging the public to keep those injured and their families in their thoughts and prayers. The critically injured individual was initially treated at John Peter Smith Hospital and later transferred to Parkland Health, where they currently remain.

Medical institutions have been actively involved in treating the injured. Baylor Scott & White Health discharged three patients, while Parkland Health continues to care for one patient who remains in critical condition. Updates on the conditions of the remaining victims have not yet been released.

The explosion caused significant damage in the vicinity of the Sandman Signature Hotel, with debris scattered across downtown streets. Broken windows, shattered glass, and ripped-off sections of walls serve as reminders of the force of the blast. Authorities have cordoned off the affected area with police tape and barricades, while heavy police presence ensures security. Inside the hotel, firefighters are diligently clearing the wreckage, aided by trained canines.

Preliminary investigations suggest that a gas leak in the hotel's basement, which houses the Asian fusion restaurant Musume, triggered the explosion. Atmos Energy crews continue to work at the scene, alongside officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

The Fort Worth Fire Department has emphasized that there is no evidence indicating criminal activity or terrorism as the cause of the explosion, despite rumors circulating on social media. They have requested the public to refrain from posting unverified theories and share only factual information. The department maintains its belief that the incident is consistent with a natural gas explosion until an official confirmation can be made.

While the aftermath of the explosion is being addressed, concerns arise regarding its impact on upcoming events. Both the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo parades scheduled for Saturday and Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday may potentially be affected. Authorities are currently collaborating with the committees of these events to determine the best course of action. Organizers of the parades remain optimistic that their events will proceed as planned.

Later in the day, further updates regarding the investigation and the condition of the victims are expected to be released. The Sandman Signature Hotel, housed within the historic W.T. Waggoner Building, opened in March of last year. The incident has undoubtedly caused significant disruption and prompted a thorough assessment of safety measures.

Throckmorton Street remains closed from West 7th Street to West 9th Street, as does Houston Street from West 7th Street to West 9th Street, and West 8th Street from Throckmorton to Main Street.