BREAKING UPDATE: At least 2 dead in explosion at Bucks County, PA nursing home

A gas explosion at the Silver Lake Healthcare Center nursing home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania killed at least two people, partially collapsed the building and set a fire. There were also reports that some people were trapped inside.  

Pennsylvania Govenor Josh Shapiro that two people were killed hours after the explosion took place. 

“We understand that there are people trapped inside,” Ruth Miller, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency said, per the AP. Multiple injuries were reported in the explosion but the official count was not immediately known.

According to NBC 10, the explosion took place at 2:15 pm and there are multiple reports of people being trapped. The Upper Makefield Township police have labeled the explosion as a "mass casualty incident." The explosion took place in the basement of the building.

One staff member at the nursing home reported that she smelled a strong odor of gas before the explosion went off, per phillyburbs.com. At least three people were seen being taken out on gurneys in the aftermath of the explosion.

The center holds around 158 patients per day. Shapiro said of the incident, "I’ve been briefed on the incident at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bucks County, and my Administration is in contact with local officials and first responders on the ground. PEMAHQ and PA State Police have offered their full support and any resources needed. The scene is still active, and folks nearby should follow the direction of local authorities. Please join Lori and me in praying for the Bristol community."

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick said in response to the incident, "My team and I are in direct communication with local officials and emergency responders, and we are closely monitoring developments as authorities work to secure the scene and care for those affected."

"We will continue to stay engaged and share updates as more verified information becomes available. For everyone’s safety, I urge you to please avoid the area. Please also join me in praying for the safety of the residents of the nursing home, the dedicated staff who care for them, and our brave first responders who rushed to the scene and ran toward danger without hesitation," he added.

State Rep. Tina Davis, whose district includes the area of the nursing center, said of the explosion, "I saw smoke and I saw car after car after car was a fire truck or ambulance from all over the city, from all over."

A nearby school was set up as a temporary evacuation site after the blast.