JUST IN: Tragedy Strikes – Gas Explosion Rocks Alabama Apartment Complex, 150 Dead, University Coach Among the Missing
Birmingham, Alabama – May 10, 2025
A devastating gas explosion ripped through the Oakwood Crest Apartment Complex in Birmingham in the early hours of Saturday morning, killing at least 150 residents and injuring scores more in what is being called one of the deadliest residential disasters in Alabama history.
Among the missing is University of Alabama assistant football coach Marcus “Big Red” Holloway, 44, who was visiting family in the complex. Officials say his vehicle was found in the parking lot, and he was last seen entering the building hours before the explosion. His current status remains unknown.
The blast occurred around 4:12 a.m., shattering windows across several city blocks and igniting a fireball that could be seen from miles away. Multiple buildings in the complex were completely flattened, while others suffered extensive structural damage.
“It sounded like a bomb went off,” said LaToya Green, a nearby resident who rushed out to help survivors. “The sky lit up, and then everything shook. People were screaming. We just ran toward the fire.”
First responders from Birmingham and surrounding counties worked through the night pulling bodies from the rubble and battling intense flames. Emergency shelters have been set up, and mobile morgues were brought in as the death toll continued to climb.
“This is a nightmare,” said Birmingham Fire Chief Lamar Tillman. “We’re looking at total devastation, and many of the victims were families asleep in their homes. We are still recovering bodies, and we expect the toll to rise.”
Preliminary reports suggest a major gas line beneath the complex may have ruptured. Residents said they had smelled gas in the area earlier in the week, and several reported it to building management. Officials have not confirmed whether any action was taken in response.
Governor Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency and called for an immediate investigation. “This is a heartbreaking tragedy for the entire state,” she said. “We will uncover the cause and hold any responsible parties accountable.”
Grief-stricken families have gathered at a nearby community center awaiting news of loved ones. The University of Alabama released a statement saying it is “deeply concerned” about Coach Holloway and is closely monitoring the situation.
As rescue teams continue their work, flags across the state are being lowered to half-staff, and a statewide vigil is planned for Sunday evening.
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