Two people died, and at least 20 others suffered injuries after two explosions and a fire tore through a nursing home in Pennsylvania. The blasts caused part of the building to collapse.
Emergency crews rushed to Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol at about 14:00 local time on Tuesday. Fire chief Kevin Dippolito said crews responded after reports of an explosion and a strong smell of gas.
Crews quickly began evacuating residents. Then, just 15 to 30 seconds after they cleared the building, a second explosion struck. A fire broke out moments later, Dippolito said.
Authorities believe a gas leak may have caused the blasts. However, investigators are still working to confirm the cause.
Meanwhile, local gas provider PECO said the explosion happened while its crews were responding to reports of a gas odor. The company said it remains unclear whether its gas lines or equipment played a role.
Photos and video shared by local media show heavy flames pouring from a partially collapsed structure.
During the rescue, one police officer carried two people over his shoulders and ran them to safety, Dippolito told reporters.
Several people became trapped in the basement after the collapse. Rescue teams later pulled them out safely.
At first, officials could not locate five people. However, police chief Charles Winik said authorities later accounted for all of them.
Debriswas scattered across nearby streets, according to reports.
A resident who lives a block away described hearing a loud explosion while watching television. “I thought an airplane fell on my house,” Willie Tye told the Associated Press. He said he then saw fire everywhere.
Family members gathered nearby, anxiously waiting for news. Cathleen O’Donnell told the BanerClub she felt sick with worry while searching for updates on her sister, Sandra Hart.
Later, O’Donnell learned her sister was alive. She said she felt relieved but was still waiting to hear about her condition.
State Governor Josh Shapiro praised first responders and nearby residents. He said neighbors stepped in to help during the emergency.
“This is the Pennsylvania way,” Shapiro said. “Neighbors helping neighbors in a moment of need.”
