A video captured the horrifying moment an explosion rocked a building in downtown Youngstown, Ohio, on Tuesday, resulting in one fatality and seven injuries. The blast, attributed to a natural gas leak, has raised concerns about the building's structural integrity.
A devastating gas explosion ripped through a building in downtown Youngstown, Ohio, on Tuesday, claiming the life of a 27-year-old bank employee and injuring seven others.
Surveillance footage captured the horrific scene as debris hurtled into the street following the blast at the Realty Building, located at 11 East Federal Street. The structure, which houses a Chase Bank branch on the ground floor and several apartments above, sustained significant damage.
Youngstown Police Chief Carl Davis confirmed the tragic loss of James R. Dunn, an employee of the Chase Bank branch. The victim's body was recovered from the scene, casting a somber cloud over the aftermath of the explosion.
The force of the blast collapsed the building's first floor and compromised its structural integrity, according to Youngstown Fire Chief Barry Finley. Emergency crews worked tirelessly to extinguish the ensuing fire and rescue survivors trapped inside.
Seven individuals were transported to Mercy Health Hospital in Youngstown for treatment. One patient remains in critical condition, while the others sustained injuries of varying severity, said a hospital spokesperson.
Witnesses described the deafening boom and the thick smoke billowing from the scene. "I heard the boom, and I looked up and I could see dark smoke coming out of the side of the Chase Bank building," said Debora Flora, the executive director of Mahoning County Land Bank.
The Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency urged the public to avoid the area until further notice. Structural engineers are assessing the building's stability and working to determine the root cause of the explosion.
Chase Bank released a statement expressing concern for the safety of its employees and customers and pledging to cooperate fully with authorities.
The Youngstown community has rallied together in the wake of this tragedy, offering support to the victims and their families. Government officials, first responders, and volunteers are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected by the explosion.
As the investigation progresses, more details will emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding this incident. The Youngstown Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are collaborating to determine if any criminal activity played a role in the explosion.
