China News Service, August 11, reported that on the 10th local time, the Baltimore Fire Department stated that a "mass natural gas explosion" in the city destroyed three connected houses, killing at least one woman and injuring six others. At present, people may still be trapped in the rubble, and firefighters are looking for more survivors.
After the explosion, dozens of firefighters rushed to the scene to rescue. According to reports, the windows of nearby houses were shattered, with shards and glass everywhere. Fire department officials said that a woman was pronounced dead at the scene and six people were sent to hospital for treatment in serious condition.
Adams, a spokesman for the Baltimore Fire Department, said, "We are working hard to find more trapped people." At present, there may still be people trapped in the collapsed building.
In addition, the cause of the accident is also under investigation. The Baltimore Sun reported in September 2019 that hazardous gas leaks have become more frequent. According to a report submitted to federal authorities by the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), an average of nearly 24 accidents were detected every day.
The report also said that the company has many discarded pipes that need to be replaced, which took 20 years to complete.
Foy, a spokesman for the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company, said the company is working to shut down natural gas supplies to nearby buildings. She said: "We are at the scene, working closely with the fire department to ensure that the situation is safe. Once the natural gas is shut down, we can begin to safely assess the situation, including checking our equipment."