Bristol nursing home explosion: 2 dead, several missing

BRISTOL, Pa. – A catastrophic explosion rocked a nursing home in Bristol, Pa., leaving at least two people dead and several others missing on Tuesday.

Nursing home explosion

What we know:

The explosion was reported around 2:30 p.m. at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol. 

Witnesses told FOX 29 that there were gas crews working in the area.

Firefighters and police officers quickly responded to the scene, rescuing residents trapped in the collapsed structure. “Fire department personnel immediately went into a rescue mode,” said Kevin Dippolito, Bristol Township’s fire chief and emergency management director.

In a statement to FOX 29, PECO said that crews were called out to the facility around 2 p.m., after reports of a gas odor. 

“While crews were on site, an explosion occurred at the facility,” the statement said. “PECO crews shut off natural gas and electric service to the facility to ensure the safety of first responders and local residents.”

According to officials, the explosion caused part of the building to collapse, trapping several people inside.

“We understand that there are people trapped inside,” said Ruth Miller, a Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency spokesperson.

Officials confirmed at least two people died in the incident. Several others are still missing. 

The backstory:

The facility recently changed ownership, and the state Department of Health conducted a visit earlier this month. 

A plan was in place for the new owners to upgrade the facility’s standards. 

The explosion is believed to have been caused by a gas leak, with a strong odor of gas noted by first responders. 

Community response 

“Firefighters rushed to this scene in order to contain the explosion… and most importantly in order to rescue people,” said Gov. Josh Shapiro. 

The community’s response was described as heroic, with police officers and firefighters working together to save lives. 

“This is the Pennsylvania way, neighbors helping neighbors in a moment of need,” said Shapiro. 

Ongoing efforts

What’s next:

“We’re still in rescue mode. We have not transitioned into a recovery mode, so we will continue on that path of rescuing and digging into the basement with the heavy machinery assisting us,” said Kevin Dippolito, Bristol Township’s Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director. “There are fire and technical rescue personnel in the collapse right now, digging by hand. Using sonar. We’ve used dogs down here to help us with our search. We are not ready to claim this as a recovery yet.”

What we don’t know:

The exact number of injuries remains unclear, as victims have been taken to various hospitals. 

“We believe there’s five unaccounted for, but they may have left the scene with family members,” said Shapiro.

Additionally, the total number of missing individuals is still being confirmed, with some possibly having left the scene with family members. 

What they’re saying:

State Rep. Tina Davis issued a statement on the explosion on Tuesday, urging people to stay away from the area.

“I am deeply concerned by the reports of an explosion and fire at the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township,” 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.”