Post date: Nov 24, 2012 4:43:50 PM
Workers clear the rubble from a massive gas explosion that leveled a strip club in Springfield, Massachusetts.
SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS, UNITED STATES (NOVEMBER 24, 2012) (NBC) - Workers continued to clear away the rubble from a massive gas explosion that leveled a strip club in Springfield, Massachusetts on Friday (November 23). Eighteen people were injured in the blast, including nine firefighters and two police officers. Local authorities said none of the injuries were life-threatening.
The Scores Gentlemen's Club exploded at about 1725EST/ 2225GMT Friday, as emergency workers were responding to a gas leak in the area according to Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno.The club had been evacuated before the explosion due to the gas leak, which may have saved the lives of patrons and employees who had been inside, said Thomas Walsh, a spokesman for the city.
At least 15 to 20 buildings in Springfield's downtown section sustained extensive damage in the blast, including a six-story residential building where a number of units have been condemned due to damage from the explosion, Walsh said.
The city has established an emergency shelter to accommodate residents displaced by the blast.
Investigators are working on determining the cause of the gas leak and subsequent explosion.