Overview
- Crews using drones, heavy equipment, search dogs and sonar continue to comb the partially collapsed Bristol Health & Rehab Center a day after the blast, following an initial rescue that faced flames, a strong gas smell and a second explosion.
- Officials have confirmed at least two fatalities, reported multiple injuries and said several residents remain unaccounted for, with figures described as preliminary.
- Authorities say a gas leak is the likely cause under active investigation after PECO personnel were already on site responding to a reported gas odor.
- PECO cut natural gas and electrical service to the facility, and Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission investigators are examining the scene to determine what triggered the explosion.
- The 174-bed facility recently changed ownership and was cited for regulatory deficiencies in October, with state health officials visiting on December 10 to implement a corrective plan.