Sun Metro employee killed in fire worked there just months

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Sun Metro employee who was killed in this week’s fire had been with the transit agency since December 2024 and he was a fleet maintenance technician, the City said.

The City of El Paso confirmed Ruben Ibarra’s death after Tuesday’s fire in a news release sent out on Friday, Feb. 14.

Man in critical condition dies after Sun Metro explosion

Earlier, KTSM had reported his death based on information provided by his family.

Eight people were injured in Tuesday’s fire at Sun Metro’s Operations Center. That included two people who were in critical condition and were flown to a burn center in Phoenix.

“Ruben Ibarra joined Sun Metro in December 2024 as a Fleet Maintenance Technician, and while his time with the department was brief, he was part of the Sun Metro family. His loss is deeply felt by those who worked alongside him,” the City said.

City Manager Dionne Mack said: “Our hearts go out to Ruben’s family, friends, and colleagues as they face this unimaginable loss. Ruben was a valued member of our Sun Metro team, and his passing is a heartbreaking loss for all who had the privilege of working alongside him. As we mourn, we remain committed to supporting his loved ones, and the City of El Paso will cover the costs of his funeral expenses to assist his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Mayor Renard U. Johnson and the El Paso City Council also expressed their condolences.

“Ruben’s commitment to public service and his contributions to our community will never be forgotten,” Johnson said. “The City of El Paso stands in solidarity with his loved ones and the entire Sun Metro family during this time of mourning. We ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers and to honor Ruben’s memory by supporting one another and showing compassion in the face of this tragedy.”

“This is a tragic loss for our Sun Metro team,” Sun Metro Director Anthony DeKeyzer said. “Our employees are the heart of our department, and we are all feeling the weight of this moment. We are committed to providing the support and resources our team needs to grieve, heal, and move forward together.”

The Ibarra family has requested privacy, and the City of El Paso and Sun Metro ask the community to respect their wishes and allow them the opportunity to grieve their loved one appropriately.

The City has communicated internally with employees about available Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources, but wants to remind staff that support remains available. Any employee needing assistance is encouraged to reach out.

AllOne Health

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.