Multiple People Injured In Gas Explosion At Bucks Co. Nursing Home

LOWER BUCKS COUNTY, PA — A gas explosion at a Bucks County nursing home had multiple people trapped inside with injuries, authorities said.

A three-alarm fire was reported on Tuesday afternoon along with damage to the building of the Silver Lake Nursing Home on Tower Road in Bristol Township following a gas leak and explosion.

Bristol Township Police reported numerous injuries from the explosion as authorities tried to evacuate residents of the nursing home.

The scene has also been classified as a Level 2 Mass Casualty incident.

"Multiple casualties have been reported, and the situation remains ongoing," said State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, who represents the district where the nursing home is located.

The Bensalem Volunteer Fire Department reported a fire in the basement with people trapped at 2:44 p.m. Tuesday. Fire officials also reported a person trapped in an elevator.

Authorities were shutting the building down immediately. There were reports that K-9 units were being brought to the building to seek victims.

Images on social media showed huge balls of black smoke and fire on the side of the building.

Fire crews were operating under Code Red conditions with mutual aid coming from Montgomery County to the nursing home near Lower Bucks Hospital.

Social media reports indicate that over 50 emergency responders are on the scene.

Authorities are informing everyone to avoid the area.

Lawmakers weighed in on the explosion, including Gov. Josh Shapiro.

"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," Shapiro said.

He said PEMA 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," the governor said. "Please join Lori and me in praying for the Bristol community."

"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," U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick said.

"I am deeply concerned by the reports of an explosion and fire at the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township," State Rep. Tina Davis said. "My thoughts are with the residents, their families, and the staff during this frightening situation. I am closely monitoring developments and remain in contact with local officials and first responders as they work to ensure everyone’s safety. I urge the public to avoid the area so emergency crews can do their jobs."

State Sen. Steve Santarsiero expressed his sympathies after hearing about the gas explosion, causing a fire and partial building collapse of the nursing home.

"For many of our neighbors, this tragedy marks a heartbreaking start to the holiday season," Santarsiero said. "In moments like these, it is essential that we come together as a community to support one another. Please check in on your friends and neighbors and keep all those affected in your thoughts and prayers in the weeks ahead."

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