3 firefighters injured in explosion at Nashua, New Hampshire building
Three firefighters were injured in an explosion at a building in Nashua, New Hampshire on Monday afternoon. Firefighters initially responded for an odor of gas inside 440 Amherst Street.
"When they arrived on scene, they quickly called for more resources. A Mayday was transmitted once the explosion took place," Nashua Fire Chief Steve Buxton said.
The firefighters were taken to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries. One firefighter was released Monday evening, and the other two will stay in the hospital overnight.
Buxton said there were approximately 40 people working inside the building at the time, and they have all been accounted for.
Footage from WBZ-TV's helicopter showed flames and heavy smoke billowing from a building.
"Shelter in place if in the vicinity," the city of Nashua's Office of Emergency Management said in a social media post.
Amherst Street is closed while firefighters continue to put out hot spots. Residents are being asked to avoid the area.
New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte said she has been "briefed on the tragic explosion" and thanked firefighters for their heroic efforts.
The cause of the explosion is under investigation, but it is believed to be related to natural gas.