Police have ruled out terrorism or any sabotage after a gas explosion caused a building collapse in Wappingers Falls, New York on Thursday, injuring 15 people.
According to a CNN report, the injured included five first responders, eight adults and two children.
During a press conference, Wappingers Falls Police Commissioner Paul Italiano revealed that the injured first responders included a firefighter and four police officers.
These victims were trapped under the debris of the collapsed building after the explosion, and emergency workers worked diligently to free them and transport them to hospitals.
According to CNN report, all the victims were hospitalized as of Thursday evening (local time).
Eric Kiszkiel with Central Hudson Gas & Electric said some of the injured people suffered serious injuries, primarily burn injuries.
The explosion resulted from a gas line rupture during routine maintenance and was not an act of terrorism or deliberate sabotage.
The building that collapsed was a multifamily structure with four adjacent apartments, Wappingers Falls Fire Chief Jason Anson said.
Central Hudson Gas & Electric is collaborating with the Red Cross to assist those displaced by the explosion.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has been informed of the building collapse and has urged New Yorkers to follow the guidance of law enforcement and other first responders to ensure the safety of the community.
“I have been alerted to the building collapse in Dutchess County and State Emergency Services personnel have been deployed to assist in response efforts.”
“As the situation evolves, I urge all New Yorkers to follow the instructions of law enforcement and other first responders working to keep the community safe. “I join all New Yorkers in praying for the Village of Wappingers Falls.”
