BREAKING: A catastrophic explosion at the Bristol Health & Rehab Center in Bristol, Pennsylvania, has left two dead and 20 others hospitalized, with one person in critical condition. The blast occurred shortly after a gas odor was reported to local authorities on October 24, 2023, prompting immediate emergency responses.
The explosion, which took place at approximately 3:30 PM EDT, caused extensive damage, collapsing sections of the building and sending flames soaring into the sky. Bristol Police Chief Charles Winik confirmed that all residents have been accounted for, but the investigation into the cause of the explosion is just beginning.
Witnesses reported a scene of chaos, with emergency responders evacuating residents amidst flames, smoke, and a strong gas smell. Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito described a harrowing rescue operation where firefighters had to navigate through debris to locate trapped individuals. “It was a chaotic situation,” he stated, as rescue teams worked tirelessly to pull residents from windows and doors.
The deceased have not yet been publicly identified, but officials confirmed that one was a resident and the other an employee, both women. The 19 hospitalized individuals were treated for a range of injuries, highlighting the urgent need for medical support following this tragic event.
State records reveal that the nursing home, which has 174 beds, was cited for multiple violations during its most recent health inspection in October 2023, including inadequate fire safety measures. Such findings raise serious concerns about the facility’s preparedness for emergencies.
The local gas utility, PECO, was on site responding to the gas smell when the explosion occurred. They have since shut off gas and electric service to ensure the safety of first responders and nearby residents. A spokesperson for PECO stated, “It is not known at this time if PECO’s equipment, or natural gas, was involved in this incident.”
Investigators from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission are now on the scene, working to determine whether a gas leak was the cause of this devastating explosion. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they seek to piece together the sequence of events.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud boom that sounded like an airplane crash, with one local resident, Willie Tye, recalling, “I thought an airplane or something came and fell on my house.” The explosion has left the community in shock as they grapple with the loss and the ongoing impact on the nursing home residents.
As this story develops, more information will emerge regarding both the victims and the investigation into the cause of the explosion. Local authorities continue to coordinate with federal agencies to ensure a thorough examination of the site, while residents and staff of the facility await news on their loved ones.
For continuous updates on this breaking story, stay tuned.