BRISTOL, Pa. (MetaWorld.Media) — A tragic explosion at the Bristol Health & Rehab Center on Tuesday resulted in multiple fatalities and left several residents unaccounted. Construction crews and drones are currently engaged in a thorough search of the rubble following the catastrophe.
Emergency services evacuated residents under dire conditions as the scene was clouded with smoke and the strong smell of gas. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro announced at a press conference that one additional explosion occurred shortly after the initial blast, which took place shortly after utility crews arrived in response to reports of a gas odor.
The explosion, which took place at about 2:15 PM, severely damaged the 174-bed facility located about 20 miles northeast of Philadelphia. Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito reported that five individuals remain unaccounted for, but suspects that some may have vacated the site with family members.
Witness and local resident Willie Tye recalled hearing a loud boom while watching a basketball game just blocks away. Stepping outside, he was met with flames and chaos, as residents fled the building.
First responders faced challenges as firefighters rescued trapped individuals, including one officer who carried two residents to safety over his shoulders. Heavy equipment, search dogs, and sonar were deployed to locate potential victims still missing beneath the wreckage.
The affected nursing home, recently affiliated with Saber Healthcare Group, has faced scrutiny due to its safety practices. Investigators from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission have arrived to determine whether a gas leak led to the explosion. Historical inspections had revealed several violations regarding maintenance of crucial fire safety equipment.
The community is left grappling with this tragedy as investigations continue to ensure the safety of both residents and staff of the facility and to seek accountability for the events that transpired.
