Youngstown, Ohio – A tragic explosion in downtown Youngstown, Ohio, on Tuesday afternoon resulted in one fatality, another individual remaining unaccounted for, and multiple injuries. The incident occurred at the Realty Building on East Federal Street, where extensive damage caused by the explosion led to a man’s death, as reported by WKBN.
The 27-year-old victim, an employee at the bank within the building, was found early Wednesday morning. Additionally, a woman is still missing, although it is uncertain if she was present during the explosion as her car was not at the scene, and she has not been identified at any local hospitals, according to Youngstown Fire Chief Barry Finley.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the front of the building visibly damaged and the facade blown off. The building, housing a Chase Bank on the lower levels and apartments above, was evacuated following the explosion. Seven individuals were hospitalized, with one requiring a ventilator due to the severity of their injuries.
Reports indicated that construction workers present in the basement sensed gas and promptly evacuated before the explosion occurred. However, the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown, and authorities are awaiting clearance to access the building for further investigation. Structural engineers and gas company workers were summoned to the scene, and the Ohio State Fire Marshal is overseeing the investigation.
Residents in the vicinity felt the impact of the explosion, likening it to a mini earthquake. Emergency officials urged the public to steer clear of the area while the situation is being addressed. The community is left reeling from the tragic event, with witnesses recounting harrowing experiences and expressing concern for missing individuals.
As authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion, the Youngstown community remains on edge, grappling with the aftermath of the devastating incident. The repercussions of the explosion have exposed vulnerabilities within the infrastructure, prompting a thorough investigation to prevent similar tragedies in the future.