Borrego Sun - Since 1949

Fire Ignites at Stanlunds Inn

 

Last updated 9/2/2024 at 9:11am

Residents in the surrounding area of Borrego Springs Road heard and felt the rumble of a blast, after a propane tank had exploded on Sunday, Sept. 1 at Stanlunds Inn and Suites.

Due to the explosion, a fire was ignited, burning a palm trees outside of the business and causing partial damage to one of the rooms.

According to Kirit Patel, Manager of Stanlunds, a guest traveling from Japan had ignited a BBQ grill, which then exploded.

However, according to the fire investigator, at this time, it is hard to pinpoint the exact cause of the explosion of the propane tank.

Units responded to the fire just after 5:10 p.m. Borrego Springs Road was closed for a limited time as firefighters worked diligently to contain the fire to keep it from spreading onto nearby brush or to the homes in the area. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

The estimated damage is currently being assessed.

Two windows were shattered from the blast, as well as significant heat damage to one of the rooms and its contents were accounted for.

"There are a ton of things that need repairs," Patel said. "The patio area and furniture, painting, redoing the stucco, the roof may need repairs, curtains, windows and more."

Also, thanks to constant trimming of branches and trees nearby, it slowed the spread of the ashes.

Patel added he hopes these repairs can be done by the time Borrego Days is here, which takes place near the end of October.

Patel and Stanlunds is currently working with their insurance, as well as AirBnB, because that is the company the guests involved booked through.

At this time, the guest involved is seeking a refund and reimbursement for damages.

Despite the fire and damages, Stanlunds Inn and Suites remains open.