Urgent Update: Deadly Nursing Home Explosion Claims 2 Lives
UPDATE: A devastating explosion at the Bristol Health & Rehab Center in Bristol, Pennsylvania has left two dead and 20 hospitalized, including one individual in critical condition. The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday afternoon, shortly after utility crews responded to reports of a gas odor at the facility.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing as investigators sift through the wreckage of the nursing home, which houses 174 residents. Authorities have confirmed that the deceased include one resident and one staff member, both women. Bristol Police Chief Charles Winik announced that all missing individuals have been accounted for.
The explosion occurred around 3:30 PM on Tuesday, sending flames and smoke billowing into the sky. Emergency responders from across the region rushed to the scene, evacuating residents and battling the fire under chaotic conditions. Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito described a harrowing rescue operation where firefighters managed to extract individuals trapped in stairwells and elevator shafts.
“I thought an airplane or something came and fell on my house,”
said local resident Willie Tye, who watched the chaos unfold from a distance. Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by flames engulfing the area.
As construction crews work with heavy equipment to clear the debris, investigators are probing the cause of the blast. Initial reports suggest a potential gas leak, but authorities caution that this information is preliminary. PECO, the local gas utility, confirmed that its crews were on-site responding to gas odor complaints when the explosion occurred. They have since shut off gas and electric service to the nursing home for safety precautions.
State records reveal that the facility had multiple violations during its last inspection in October, including failures to maintain essential safety measures like fire extinguishers and smoke barrier partitions. The nursing home’s Medicare rating is classified as “much below average,” raising concerns about resident safety.
In a statement, Saber Healthcare Group, which recently affiliated with the nursing home, called the explosion “devastating” and assured the community that they are cooperating fully with investigators. Staff had reported smelling gas over the weekend, but initial assessments did not indicate an immediate danger.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. The community remains in shock as the search for answers unfolds. Residents are advised to stay clear of the area while safety assessments are conducted.
This situation is rapidly developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further details on this tragic incident.
