Hillsboro explosion caused by overfilled propane tank

State officials have revealed the cause of a deadly explosion at Jimbos Auto Repair in Hillsboro, which killed three employees. The incident occurred on November 28, 2023, when a 100-pound propane gas tank, filled improperly, ruptured inside the auto shop. Investigators found that an employee at Dance's Steel and Farm Supply overfilled the propane tank just hours before the explosion. The tank was manufactured in 1950 and had not been updated properly. It was filled outside on a cold day and later moved inside, where warmer temperatures caused the propane to expand and the tank to explode. The blast happened around 5:02 p.m., sending flames and smoke into the air. The explosion ignited when escaping propane vapor came into contact with an open flame from a furnace. Witnesses and evidence revealed that the propane tank had not been properly checked before it was filled. Investigators discovered that the employee did not adequately track how much propane was put into tanks. Despite this, the Hillsboro City Prosecutor decided not to pursue any charges against the employee. City Law Director Randalyn Worley stated that the evidence did not support charges of negligent homicide. The case has now been closed. Worley extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.