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Bristol nursing home explosion: 3 killed, 20 hospitalized
A catastrophic explosion rocked a nursing home in Bristol, Pa., leaving at least three people dead and 20 people hospitalized on Tuesday.
BRISTOL, Pa. - A catastrophic explosion rocked a nursing home in Bristol, Pa., leaving at least three people dead and 20 people hospitalized on Tuesday.
Nursing home explosion
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Bristol nursing home explosion deemed Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident
FOX 29's JoAnn Pileggi provides updates about the explosion at a nursing home in Bristol that left people trapped inside Tuesday.
What we know:
The explosion was reported around 2:30 p.m. at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol.
Witnesses told FOX 29 that there were gas crews working in the area.
Firefighters and police officers quickly responded to the scene, rescuing residents trapped in the collapsed structure. "Fire department personnel immediately went into a rescue mode," said Kevin Dippolito, Bristol Township's fire chief and emergency management director.
In a statement to FOX 29, PECO said that crews were called out to the facility around 2 p.m., after reports of a gas odor.
"While crews were on site, an explosion occurred at the facility," the statement said. "PECO crews shut off natural gas and electric service to the facility to ensure the safety of first responders and local residents."
According to officials, the explosion caused part of the building to collapse, trapping several people inside.
"We understand that there are people trapped inside," said Ruth Miller, a Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency spokesperson.
Officials confirmed at least three people died in the incident. 20 people are being treated at local hospitals.
Everyone is accounted for.
The backstory:
The facility recently changed ownership, and the state Department of Health conducted a visit earlier this month.
A plan was in place for the new owners to upgrade the facility's standards.
The explosion is believed to have been caused by a gas leak, with a strong odor of gas noted by first responders.
Community response
"Firefighters rushed to this scene in order to contain the explosion... and most importantly in order to rescue people," said Gov. Josh Shapiro.
The community's response was described as heroic, with police officers and firefighters working together to save lives.
"This is the Pennsylvania way, neighbors helping neighbors in a moment of need," said Shapiro.
Ongoing efforts
What's next:
The American Red Cross issued the following statement: "Our hearts go out to everyone affected by Tuesday afternoon's tragic explosion at an extended care facility in Bristol, Bucks County.The American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania responded with a team of trained disaster workers shortly after the emergency occurred in coordination with our local, county and state partners. Red Cross volunteers spent the afternoon and evening supporting nearly two dozen families who were looking to be reunited with loved ones."
Anyone who needs help locating a family member that has been affected is asked to go to Lower Bucks Hospital, 501 Bath Road, Bristol, or call 215-785-9200.
What they're saying:
State Rep. Tina Davis issued a statement on the explosion on Tuesday, urging people to stay away from the area.
"I am deeply concerned by the reports of an explosion and fire at the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township," Davis said. "My thoughts are with the residents, their families, and the staff during this frightening situation. I am closely monitoring developments and remain in contact with local officials and first responders as they work to ensure everyone’s safety. I urge the public to avoid the area so emergency crews can do their jobs."
The Source: Information in this story is from the Associated Press and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.