Two Dead After Pennsylvania Nursing Home Explosions
Two individuals tragically lost their lives, and 20 others sustained injuries following a series of explosions and a fire at a Pennsylvania nursing home that resulted in part of the building collapsing.
Details of the Incident
– Emergency crews responded to the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol around 2:00 PM local time (7:00 PM GMT) on Tuesday after reports of an explosion and the smell of gas.
– Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito noted that the initial explosion prompted the immediate evacuation of residents. Miraculously, just 15 to 30 seconds after the evacuation, a second explosion occurred along with a significant fire.
– Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosions, with preliminary indications pointing towards a possible gas leak.
– Local gas company PECO stated that their crews were on-site due to earlier reports of a gas odor when the explosion took place. They are still determining if their gas or equipment played a role in the incident.
Eyewitness Accounts
Images and videos shared on social media show the nursing home engulfed in flames, with parts of the structure severely damaged.
– A resident living nearby described the explosive sound as a “loud ka-boom,” initially fearing that an airplane had crashed. “I thought an airplane or something came and fell on my house,” said Willie Tye, recalling the chaotic scene as he saw “fire everywhere.”
– Mr. Dippolito praised the heroic actions of first responders, highlighting a police officer who “literally threw two people over his shoulders and ran” to safety.
Rescues and Community Response
– Several individuals were trapped in the basement of the collapsed structure, but emergency crews managed to rescue them. Five individuals who were previously unaccounted for were located, as confirmed by Police Chief Charles Winik.
– Debris from the explosion was found scattered in the nearby vicinity, adding to the scene’s devastation.
Families Reeling from the Tragedy
Families of those residing at the nursing home expressed deep concern while awaiting updates. Cathleen O’Donnell shared her emotional ordeal in trying to reach her sister, Sandra Hart. I was sick with worry, she stated. Upon learning that her sister was alive, she felt “completely ecstatic and over the moon,” although she continued to seek information about her sister’s condition.
Community Solidarity in Pennsylvania
State Governor Josh Shapiro commended the quick and efficient response from emergency crews and local residents, stating that neighbors came forth to assist in the crisis. “We had residents coming out of their houses offering to help us,” he remarked. “This is the Pennsylvania way: neighbours helping neighbours in a moment of need.”
The aftermath of the Pennsylvania nursing home explosions serves as a harrowing reminder of the importance of community resilience and support in times of crisis.