2 weeks Ago By Isabella Cheng
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Authorities are investigating after a commuter bus wrapped with the message "Call on Jesus" caught fire Wednesday, sparking a massive explosion in North Shreveport, Louisiana.The Shreveport Fire Department (SFD) said the first call came in at 2:37 p.
m., and, on arrival, responders found a Shreveport Area Transit System (SportTran) bus was actively burning, with a relief valve open and flames erupting from one of the vehicle’s compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel tanks.Thankfully, fire officials said the driver and all passengers had exited the bus and were a safe distance away.
The fire department said firefighters worked quickly with the Shreveport Police Department to secure the scene and establish a safety perimeter to keep bystanders and oncoming traffic at a safe distance.(Courtesy of Karen L.)(Courtesy of Karen L.
)(KTAL/KMSS Photographer Tony Neal)(Courtesy of Karen L.)(KTAL/KMSS Photographer Tony Neal)SFD stated that shortly after arriving, the fuel tank ruptured, rapidly escalating the fire and engulfing the bus in flames.Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux released a statement on Thursday morning about the explosion, commending the SporTran driver's live-saving actions.
The mayor also praises SPORTRAN CEO Dinero Washington for his immediate response and leadership in swiftly pulling all compressed natural gas (CNG) buses from service pending inspection and investigation.Where does your neighborhood rank among the 2025 ‘Best Places to Live’?“Our city is grateful for the courage and quick thinking demonstrated yesterday,” said Mayor Arceneaux. “The actions of this SPORTRAN bus driver undoubtedly saved lives.
In a moment of danger, she reacted without hesitation, ensuring all passengers were safely evacuated before the fire escalated. She is a true public servant and a heroine.”The mayor also expressed appreciation for the leadership of Dinero Washington, CEO of SPORTRAN, for his immediate action in temporarily suspending the operation of all CNG buses while the cause of the fire is investigated.
“Mr. Washington’s proactive approach and commitment to public safety are exactly what we expect from our transit leadership,” said Mayor Arceneaux. “His swift decision to ground the CNG fleet was made with the safety of our riders and drivers in mind, and we support him fully as the investigation continues.
”SporTran announced Thursday that it had inspected all 40 CNG buses, allowing service to resume..
