At least seven people were injured after a natural gas explosion rocked downtown Youngstown, Ohio, on Tuesday. The explosion occurred near Central Square and blew off the exterior of the Realty Building on East Federal Street, which contains apartments and a Chase bank. One person was critically injured, and two people were reported missing. The situation was described as “fluid but under control” by the Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency, which urged residents to avoid the area until further notice.
The exact cause of the gas explosion is unclear, and officials are working to determine if a gas leak was involved. Representatives for the Youngstown Police Department and Fire Department have not yet provided any comment on the incident. The explosion comes just a few months after a similar incident in downtown Fort Worth, Texas, where at least 21 people were injured in an apparent gas explosion. The cause of that explosion was still under investigation as of early April.
Photos of the aftermath of the explosion in downtown Youngstown show extensive damage to the surrounding area. The explosion has left the community on edge as they wait for more information from officials regarding the cause and any potential risks going forward. The Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency assured residents that the situation was under control, but advised caution and to stay away from the affected area for the time being.
The Youngstown Police Department confirmed the incident in a post on Facebook and urged the public to steer clear of the area as emergency responders worked to secure the scene. With at least seven people injured and two missing, the community is coming together to support those affected by the explosion. As more details emerge about the cause of the blast, residents are left wondering what could have led to such a devastating event in downtown Youngstown.
