BRISTOL, Pa. — Construction crews and drones searched through the rubble of the Bristol Health & Rehab Center on Wednesday following a powerful explosion that claimed at least two lives and left multiple residents unaccounted for.
Emergency responders, including local firefighters and utility crews, were dispatched to the scene after reports emerged of an explosion around 2:15 p.m. Tuesday. According to Governor Josh Shapiro, the blast caused a partial collapse of the nursing home and ignited a chaotic atmosphere where rescuers had to navigate the heavy debris and smoke.
The explosion occurred shortly after a utility team responded to reports of a gas smell in the facility. Investigators are now probing whether a gas leak was the cause, although findings remain preliminary.
Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito reported that five individuals were unaccounted for, although he noted it was possible some had left with family members. The rescue operation saw firefighters pulling residents from windows and doors, and two persons were extracted from a collapsed section of the building.
Willie Tye, a nearby resident, recalled hearing a loud boom that made him think an aircraft had crashed. Upon stepping outside, he observed flames and smoke enveloping the facility.
The local gas utility, PECO, confirmed it was responding to a gas odor call when the explosion occurred. Following the incident, they promptly cut off natural gas and electric services to ensure the safety of first responders.
Investigative measures by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission are ongoing. The nursing home was recently affiliated with Saber Healthcare Group, which described the explosion as “devastating.” They stated that personnel had reported gas odors prior to the incident, and they are cooperating with authorities as the investigation proceeds.
Earlier this year, the nursing home had faced multiple citations during its inspection by the Pennsylvania Department of Health for issues pertaining to safety procedures.
As the community mourns the loss and awaits further details on the incident, thoughts are with those affected by this tragic event.
