Ten people were hospitalized after a house in Syracuse, New York collapsed Tuesday in a possible gas explosion, officials said.
Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds said about 50 firefighters responded to the residence at 205 Carbon Street around 4 p.m. ET, where they smelled a strong odor of gas and found a car underneath the collapse.
A screengrab from a video shows the scene of a collapsed house in Syracuse, NY, June 18, 2024.
ABC News/WSYR
Multiple victims were found spread out around the building, Monds said. Ten people — including some children — were taken to the hospital, eight of whom were in serious condition.
Victims are expected to be treated for crush injuries and burns, he said.
Firefighters are conducting search and rescue efforts.
A screengrab from a video shows a collapsed house in Syracuse, NY, June 18, 2024.
ABC News/WSYR
About 17-20 people were believed to have lived in the building, Monds said.
The neighborhood is currently safe, he added.
National Grid responded to the scene to ensure there were no gas leaks and is working with firefighter investigators to determine the cause of the collapse. A spokesperson for the utility company told ABC News there were no reports of any gas leaks prior to the home collapse.
This is a developing story.
On Tuesday evening, officials in Syracuse, New York reported that 10 individuals had been hospitalized following a potential gas explosion that caused a house to collapse. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, shaking the quiet neighborhood and leaving residents in shock.
According to authorities, the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak inside the home. The force of the blast was so powerful that it completely leveled the house, leaving behind only a pile of rubble and debris. Several neighboring homes also sustained damage from the explosion, with windows shattered and walls cracked.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene to assist those injured in the blast. Ten individuals were taken to local hospitals for treatment, with injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported in the incident.
The Syracuse Fire Department and National Grid crews worked tirelessly to secure the area and ensure that there were no further gas leaks or hazards present. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, but officials are urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspected gas leaks to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Neighbors in the area expressed their shock and disbelief at the sudden and tragic event. Many have come together to support those affected by the explosion, offering assistance and comfort during this difficult time.
As the community comes to terms with the aftermath of the gas explosion, officials are reminding residents to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of gas lines and appliances to ensure the safety of our homes and loved ones.
