Fireworks Suspected in Early morning Fire at downtown San Antonio Hotel
San Antonio firefighters responded to a blaze at the Marriott Rivercenter Thursday morning, with initial investigations pointing to fireworks as the potential cause.
- The San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) was dispatched to the Marriott rivercenter around 10 a.m. on January 1, 2026.
- Crews discovered smoldering paint in the hotel’s loading dock area.
- Hotel security footage reportedly shows individuals throwing fireworks into the loading dock.
- No injuries were reported consequently of the incident.
SAN ANTONIO – A New Year’s Day fire at the Marriott Rivercenter in downtown San Antonio may have been ignited by fireworks, according to the San Antonio Fire Department. The incident prompted a swift response from multiple fire crews, arriving on the scene just after 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Firefighters were initially called to the hotel, located in the 100 block of Bowie Street, after reports of smoke emanating from the loading dock area. Upon arrival,crews found paint “smoldering” within the dock,raising concerns about a potential larger fire.
The situation took a surprising turn when the hotel’s security team shared surveillance footage with SAFD.The footage allegedly depicts individuals, described as “kids,” throwing fireworks into the loading dock. This discovery quickly became a focal point of the examination.
Thankfully, the fire was contained without any reported injuries. The quick response of the SAFD prevented the situation from escalating, ensuring the safety of hotel guests and staff.
As of Thursday afternoon, the San Antonio Police Department had not yet released any additional information regarding the incident. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire and the individuals seen in the security footage.
Why did the fire start? The fire at the Marriott Rivercenter is suspected to have been caused by individuals throwing fireworks into the hotel’s loading dock. Security footage reportedly captured the act, leading investigators to believe the fireworks ignited smoldering paint.
Who was involved? The San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) responded to the scene, successfully containing the fire. Hotel security provided crucial surveillance footage.The individuals responsible for throwing the fireworks are described as “kids” and are currently under investigation by the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD).
What was the extent of the damage? The fire was limited to smoldering paint in the loading dock area. No notable structural damage occurred, and no injuries were reported. The SAFD’s rapid response prevented the fire from spreading.
How did it end? The SAFD extinguished the smoldering paint, containing the fire. The SAPD is investigating the incident and attempting to identify the individuals responsible. The hotel resumed normal operations with minimal disruption.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
