Sun Metro Operations Center Fire: 2nd Life Claimed

The tragic explosion at the Sun Metro headquarters has now claimed a second life. The City of El Paso confirmed that German Garcia, a fleet maintenance technician who was flown to a Phoenix burn center after the February 11 explosion, has died from his injuries.

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“We are heartbroken to lose another dedicated member of our Sun Metro team,” said City Manager Dionne Mack. “German Garcia was an essential part of the hardworking group that keeps our community moving forward. His loss is immense, and we send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this painful time. The City is steadfast in its commitment to support those affected, ensuring our employees have access to the resources they need in these trying moments.”

El Paso Mayor Renard U. Johnson and the El Paso City Council also expressed their sorrow over Garcia's passing.

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“It is truly heartbreaking to lose not one, but two valued members of our City team in such a short span,” said Mayor Johnson. “We grieve alongside their families and our Sun Metro employees. We encourage the community to remember them in their thoughts and prayers as we all process this sorrow together.”

Garcia joined Sun Metro in December 2024, alongside Ruben Ibarra, a colleague who also died from injuries sustained in the explosion.

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“Our team is still coming to terms with these tragic losses,” said Sun Metro Director Anthony DeKeyzer. “Although German and Ruben were with us for a brief time, their impact on our lives is undeniable. We stand united with their families and will continue to honor their memory.”

To commemorate Ibarra, the City and Sun Metro organized a tribute on Monday. At approximately 1:04 p.m., around the time the explosion occurred, bus drivers pulled over for 60 seconds of silence. City officials, including Johnson and Mack, also held a memorial ceremony inside a Sun Metro bus parked outside City Hall.