As U.S. gas prices topped $4 per gallon nationally and Texas averages jumped 10 cents overnight to $3.77, some Fort Worth motorists received an unexpected helping hand on Wednesday.
The Fort Worth Police Department partnered with Fort Worth Metro to host a surprise “April Fuels Day” event, pumping $25 worth of free gas for approximately 80 drivers at the Lucky Shamrock gas station. The unadvertised giveaway was designed to support the community as fuel costs continue to climb nationwide, with the national average for unleaded gas exceeding $4 and Texas prices up $1.18 from a month ago.
Drivers initially reacted with skepticism, questioning whether the offer was legitimate or an April Fool’s Day prank. According to the Fort Worth Police Department, many asked, “Are they serious? Is this for real?” before expressing relief upon learning it was genuine.
The department emphasized that the event was not publicized in advance, ensuring that those who truly needed fuel would benefit. In less than an hour, officers and partners from Fort Worth Metro distributed the free gas, bringing immediate relief to participants.
One grateful driver told reporters, “Every little bit helps, especially now. Yeah, hard times are definitely set in, so this is great. A lot of things are high right now, so you know it’s hard to make ends meet. But this is a blessing right here. I’ve been praying every day.”
Word of the giveaway spread quickly, leading to lines forming at the station. The Fort Worth Police Department stated the initiative was intended as a direct way to support local residents facing rising costs, without any prior announcement.
The event took place off I-35 and Seminary in South Fort Worth, providing a timely boost during a period of sustained pressure on household budgets from high fuel and other prices.
