Multiple people injured after fire and explosion at Pennsylvania nursing home near Philadelphia

Multiple people were injured after a fire and explosion tore through a nursing home in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, prompting a large-scale emergency response and the evacuation of elderly residents.

Bristol Township Police Lieutenant Sean Cosgrove confirmed that there were injuries but said none are believed to be critical at this time. Authorities are still working to determine whether everyone inside the facility has been fully accounted for.

Early reports suggested that some residents may have been trapped inside the building, according to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. However, officials have not provided updated confirmation on whether anyone remains unaccounted for. A portion of the nursing home reportedly collapsed following the explosion, and emergency crews from both Pennsylvania and New Jersey responded to the scene.

Authorities told the Associated Press that the explosion appears to be gas-related, though the exact cause has not yet been confirmed. The scene remains active as investigators and first responders continue their work.

The facility, Bristol Health & Rehab Center, previously known as Silver Lake Nursing Home, acknowledged the incident in a social media post and said local authorities were responding. The nursing home is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said he has been briefed on the situation and is in contact with local officials. He urged residents in the area to follow instructions from authorities as the emergency response continues.

Harry S. Truman High School has been designated as a reunification center for residents displaced by the fire, according to the Bristol Township School District.

Officials say the investigation is ongoing, and additional details are expected as emergency crews continue to assess damage, account for residents, and determine the cause of the explosion.

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