URGENT UPDATE: A devastating explosion at the Bristol Health & Rehab Center in Bucks County has resulted in at least two fatalities, with emergency responders still searching for five individuals unaccounted for, officials confirmed just hours ago. The explosion, which occurred on October 24, 2023, at approximately 2:17 PM, sent shockwaves through the community and left part of the building in ruins.
Authorities report that emergency crews rushed to the scene, battling flames and a strong gas odor to evacuate residents and staff trapped inside. In a press conference, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his condolences, urging residents to pray for the victims and their families as the community faces a heartbreaking loss just before the holiday season.
Witnesses described a harrowing scene, with black smoke billowing from the facility as firefighters worked tirelessly to rescue those in peril. Eyewitness Willie Tye recounted hearing a “loud kaboom” while at home, prompting him to rush outside to witness the chaos unfolding. “It looked like it happened in the kitchen area,” Tye said, noting that many residents and staff were unable to escape.
Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito reported that firefighters encountered overwhelming challenges during the rescue, with individuals trapped in stairwells and elevator shafts. They managed to pull victims from windows, with one officer described as “extraordinary” for carrying two people to safety.
As of this evening, officials remain in “rescue mode,” with ongoing efforts to locate the missing individuals. Chief Dippolito cautioned that some of the unaccounted may have left the scene with family members, but the uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on the community.
Preliminary investigations suggest a potential gas leak may have caused the explosion. Local gas utility, PECO, revealed that their crews were on-site investigating reports of a gas odor just before the incident occurred. The company has since shut off gas and electric service to the area to ensure the safety of first responders and residents.
In a statement, Nils Hagen-Frederiksen of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission announced that investigators would be dispatched to the scene to determine the cause of the explosion. He emphasized that a definitive link to the gas leak would require a thorough examination.
The nursing home, previously known as Silver Lake Healthcare Center, has come under scrutiny following reports of safety violations. The latest state inspection revealed several compliance issues, including inadequate fire safety measures and improper storage of oxygen cylinders.
As the investigation unfolds, the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event. Governor Shapiro’s call for prayers resonates deeply as families prepare for what will likely be an empty chair during this holiday season.
More updates are expected as rescue operations continue and further investigations are launched. Stay tuned for the latest developments in this urgent situation.
