2 dead in nursing home explosion in Bristol, Pennsylvania, several still missing, officials say
Two people are dead after an explosion at a nursing home in Bristol, Pennsylvania, Tuesday afternoon, and several are still missing, Gov. Josh Shapiro said.
Officials believe a gas leak led to an explosion and a fire, Shapiro said.
Bucks County dispatchers said crews responded to an active fire at Silver Lake Nursing Home on the 900 block of Tower Road. According to a PECO spokesperson, crews responded to reports of a gas odor at the nursing home shortly after 2 p.m.
"While crews were on site, an explosion occurred at the facility. PECO crews shut off natural gas and electric service to the facility to ensure the safety of first responders and local residents," the statement reads.
Part of the building has collapsed. Officials say a reunification site is set up at Truman High School in Levittown.
Bristol is located about 20 miles northeast of Philadelphia. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick said on Facebook that he is communicating with local officials about the reported explosion at the facility. He asked people to avoid the area.
"To the Bristol community: I've got your back, and I'll be with you soon," Shapiro said earlier in a post on social media.
This is a developing story and will be updated.