In brief
Emergency crews were dispatched to the Silver Lake Nursing Home following a significant explosion and fire. Authorities believe individuals may still be trapped, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause. The local utility provider had responded to an odor of gas shortly before the explosion occurred. Governor Josh Shapiro is in contact with local officials as the situation develops.
Multiple people are reported to be injured following an explosion and fire at a nursing home in Bristol, Pennsylvania, officials say.
Emergency crews were called to the Silver Lake Nursing Home at about 14:00 local time (19:00 GMT) on Tuesday. Firefighters believe some individuals may still be trapped inside the building.
An emergency management official told CBS, the BBC's US partner, that the fire remains active and part of the structure has collapsed. It's not clear how many people are injured, and the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.
Images and videos posted on social platforms by local media outlets show a partially collapsed building with massive flames billowing out from it.
Local utility provider PECO stated that its crews had responded to reports of a gas odor at the facility earlier in the afternoon. While they were on site, an explosion occurred, a company spokesperson said. Natural gas and electric service to the building were subsequently shut off.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro offered his prayers for the community, indicating he was in contact with local officials and first responders on the scene. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick urged the public to avoid the area, stating, My team and I are in direct communication with local officials and emergency responders, and we are closely monitoring developments as authorities work to secure the scene.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.