Thirteen individuals were injured in a house collapse in Syracuse, New York, with investigators looking into the possibility of a gas explosion as the cause. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, prompting over 50 firefighters to respond to multiple 911 calls reporting what seemed like an explosion at a two-story house on Carbon Street.
Most of the victims were discovered in the front yard of the home, while one person had to be rescued from a car trapped in the rubble. Of the 13 individuals taken to the hospital, 11 required further treatment. The victims ranged in age from eight months to 42 years old, including two fathers, two mothers, and nine children. Three of the children are currently in critical but stable condition.
The house, built in 1920, collapsed unexpectedly, leading to a thorough investigation by police and fire officials. The responders also came across downed power lines and a strong smell of natural gas at the scene. Search and rescue teams worked diligently to ensure no one else was trapped beneath the debris.
Mayor Ben Walsh mentioned that the house had no outstanding code violations, and investigators were speaking with the landlord. Following the investigation, the property will be demolished, and the gas line serving the home has been shut off by National Grid.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with gas explosions and the importance of regular safety inspections for buildings, particularly older structures. It is crucial for homeowners and landlords to prioritize maintenance and adhere to safety regulations to prevent such tragic events in the future.