Two people have lost their lives and 20 others have been injured in a devastating incident at a Pennsylvania nursing home. The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday at approximately 14:00 local time (19:00 GMT) when emergency crews responded to reports of an initial explosion and a gas smell at the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol.

According to eyewitness accounts and official statements, the first explosion occurred shortly after the evacuation of the building, followed by a fire that led to a partial collapse of the structure. Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito confirmed that the second explosion and fire happened just 15 to 30 seconds after the initial evacuation. Authorities have suggested that a gas leak could be the cause of the explosions, although an ongoing investigation is yet to confirm this.

Emergency responders were quick to react, with multiple fire departments and rescue teams rushing to the scene to rescue those trapped inside. The immediate impact of the disaster was felt as nearby residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Local hospitals have reported receiving multiple patients with injuries ranging from minor to severe.

The Silver Lake Nursing Home, which has been in operation for over 20 years, has a capacity for approximately 100 residents. The incident has sparked concerns about the safety and security of such facilities, particularly in the context of aging infrastructure and potential gas leaks. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to prevent such tragedies.

As the investigation continues, officials from the local gas firm PECO have stated that their crews were responding to reports of a gas smell at the time of the explosion. The company has assured the public that it is cooperating fully with the investigation and is working to determine whether their gas or equipment was involved.

The incident has left the community in shock, with many residents expressing their condolences to the families of the victims. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have promised a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.