An explosion struck a senior living apartment building in Austintown, near Youngstown, Ohio, causing heavy damage and injuries to several residents. The blast, which occurred on Friday afternoon, sent debris across the complex and damaged multiple units.
Residents described the incident as feeling like an earthquake.
“It felt like an earthquake,” one resident told WKBN, recalling the sudden jolt and chaos that followed.
Emergency crews, including firefighters and police, quickly arrived at the scene to treat the injured and secure the area. At least four people were taken to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion. Initial reports suggest it may have originated from a gas line, but officials have not yet confirmed the source. Utility workers shut off gas supply to prevent further danger while structural engineers inspected the building’s stability.
The explosion displaced dozens of residents, many of them elderly, who were evacuated to temporary shelters. Local agencies and the Red Cross provided food, blankets, and medical assistance. Cleanup efforts are ongoing as investigators continue their work.
“We’ll rebuild and support those affected,” a township spokesperson said, noting the strong community response.
A suspected gas explosion injured several residents at an Austintown senior living complex, prompting major emergency response and ongoing safety investigations.