Bristol, PA — Utility officials and investigators are working to determine the cause of a deadly explosion at a Bristol nursing home that killed two people and sent at least 20 others to area hospitals.
The blast occurred Tuesday afternoon at Silver Lake Nursing Home, triggering a partial collapse of the building and a large-scale rescue operation. The incident was classified by officials as a Level 2 mass casualty event.
PECO responded around 2 p.m. for a gas odor; the explosion was reported shortly after. Witnesses said utility workers were already in the area when the explosion occurred.
Rescue Efforts and Accountability
Firefighters and police officers rushed into the damaged structure, pulling residents and staff from the debris.
“Fire department personnel immediately went into a rescue mode,” said Bristol Township Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Kevin Dippolito.
Officials later confirmed that all individuals inside the building were accounted for following an extensive search.
Fatalities Clarified
Authorities initially reported three deaths. However, police later clarified that one critically injured patient was resuscitated after being transported to a hospital.
“We have just been informed that the patient transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center was resuscitated,” Bristol Township Police Chief Winik said. “We are only confirming two deceased at this time.”
At least 20 people were hospitalized. The severity of their injuries has not been released.
PECO Responds
On Wednesday, PECO issued a detailed statement addressing its response and the ongoing investigation:
“PECO crews responded to reports of a gas odor on Dec. 23 at the Silver Lake Nursing Home at 905 Tower Road in Bristol Township, Bucks County. A few hours later, an explosion occurred at the facility. PECO crews shut off natural gas and electric service to the facility to ensure the safety of first responders and local residents. The cause of this incident is under investigation. It is not known at this time if PECO’s equipment, or natural gas, was involved in this incident. Please direct all questions to the National Transportation Safety Board, which is leading the investigation. Our hearts go out to the families and community affected by this tragic event.”
Facility Background
State officials confirmed the nursing home had recently changed ownership. The Pennsylvania Department of Health conducted a visit earlier this month, and plans were reportedly in place to upgrade the facility. Officials have not said whether those changes are related to the explosion.
Community and State Response
Gov. Josh Shapiro praised first responders for their swift actions.
“Firefighters rushed to this scene not only to contain the explosion, but to rescue people,” Shapiro said. “This is the Pennsylvania way — neighbors helping neighbors in a moment of need.”
State Rep. Tina Davis urged the public to avoid the area as emergency crews and investigators continue their work.
Support for Families
The American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania deployed disaster response teams to assist families seeking to reunite with loved ones. Volunteers worked throughout the evening supporting nearly two dozen families affected by the incident.
