Two Dead, Several Missing After Explosion Hits Pennsylvania Nursing Home

At least two people have died and several others remain missing after a fire and explosion ripped through a nursing home on the outskirts of Philadelphia, prompting a large-scale emergency response, officials said.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said the blast sparked urgent rescue efforts as local responders, staff, and bystanders rushed to evacuate elderly residents from the facility. Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito said up to five people may be missing, though he stressed the figure is preliminary. The number of injured remains unclear, as patients were transported to multiple hospitals across the region.

Authorities believe the explosion may have been caused by a gas leak, though officials emphasized that the cause is still under investigation. The local utility company, PECO, said its crews responded to reports of a gas odor at the facility shortly after 2:00 p.m., prior to the explosion.

Emergency crews continue search and rescue operations as investigators work to determine the exact circumstances behind the blast. Officials said further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.