Branch Inn Probe Continues, Victim Improves
PUEBLO – One giant crane and federal investigators have moved a mountain of rubble, yet are still searching for a reason the Branch Inn blew up. Giant chunks of the building had to be lifted out of the way for investigators to get a better look at what the blast did to the two buildings it destroyed. Bomb and accelerant detecting dogs were nearby on Monday but investigators didn’t use them. A spokesperson for the investigation says they won’t be used unless there’s something suspicious. Federal investigators and local police are also talking with victims and witnesses to get a better idea of what happened.
“This building was leveled there’s really nothing salvageable in there and its really a shame for the community and the owners,” said Special Agent John Hageman, the investigation spokesperson.
One owner, Frank Vigil, remains in fair condition at Parkview Medical Center. Gino Roney has been upgraded from critical to serious condition. He was buried for four hours following the explosion and rushed to the hospital.
Investigators aren’t saying how long their investigation will take from this point and also don’t want to say when Union Avenue would be ready to reopen.
