Gas explosion in nursing home in Pennsylvania, America, many people trapped inside
Reuters, Washington. A probable gas explosion occurred at about 2:15 pm (local time) on December 23, 2025, at the Silver Lake Healthcare Center (now known as Bristol Health and Rehab Center), located in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania. The explosion caused part of the building to collapse, black smoke rose and many people were trapped under the debris, two people are feared dead in the accident.
The evacuated residents are being taken by buses to Truman High School as a reunification center, where arrangements for beds, water etc. are being made. The center has 174 beds, and rescue operations are underway. Governor Josh Shapiro has offered state resources. The cause of the accident is under investigation, but gas leak is the main suspect.
There were complaints of a strong smell of gas before the explosion and PECO Utility crews are at the scene investigating. Several people were injured, some are reported missing, and some reports suggest at least two deaths, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
This incident was declared a mass casualty incident, in which massive relief work is going on. State Representative Tina Davis reported seeing smoke and a rush of ambulance-fire engines near the scene.