2 Dead, Several Missing In Gas Explosion At Bucks Co. Nursing Home

LOWER BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Two people are dead and several are still missing after a gas explosion at a Bucks County nursing home in which multiple people became trapped inside and sustained injuries, authorities said.

The incident began at Silver Lake Nursing Home on Tower Road in Bristol Township shortly before 3 p.m. Tuesday. A three-alarm fire was reported along with damage to the building following a gas leak and explosion. As of Tuesday evening, rescuers continue to dig through rubble in the basement of the nursing home for the unaccounted residents.

Bristol Township Police reported numerous injuries from the explosion as authorities tried to evacuate residents of the nursing home.

"Multiple casualties have been reported, and the situation remains ongoing," said State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, who represents the district where the nursing home is located. Authorities said in an update Tuesday the scene has also been classified as a Level 2 Mass Casualty incident.

The Bensalem Volunteer Fire Department reported a fire in the basement with people trapped at 2:44 p.m. Tuesday. Authorities shut down the building down immediately. K-9 units were brought to the building to seek victims.

Images on social media showed huge balls of black smoke and fire on the side of the building. Fire crews were operating under Code Red conditions with mutual aid coming from Montgomery County to the nursing home near Lower Bucks Hospital.

Social media reports indicate that over 50 emergency responders are on the scene and authorities said people should avoid the area.

A press conference was held Tuesday night. Gov. Josh Shapiro was in attendance. "I’ve been briefed on the incident at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bucks County, and my Administration is in contact with local officials and first responders on the ground," Shapiro said.

He said PEMA and PA State Police have offered their full support and any resources needed.

"The scene is still active, and folks nearby should follow the direction of local authorities," the governor said. "Please join Lori and me in praying for the Bristol community."

"My team and I are in direct communication with local officials and emergency responders, and we are closely monitoring developments as authorities work to secure the scene and care for those affected. We will continue to stay engaged and share updates as more verified information becomes available," U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick said.

"I am deeply concerned by the reports of an explosion and fire at the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township," State Rep. Tina Davis said. "My thoughts are with the residents, their families, and the staff during this frightening situation. I am closely monitoring developments and remain in contact with local officials and first responders as they work to ensure everyone’s safety. I urge the public to avoid the area so emergency crews can do their jobs."

State Sen. Steve Santarsiero expressed his sympathies after hearing about the gas explosion, causing a fire and partial building collapse of the nursing home.

"For many of our neighbors, this tragedy marks a heartbreaking start to the holiday season," Santarsiero said. "In moments like these, it is essential that we come together as a community to support one another. Please check in on your friends and neighbors and keep all those affected in your thoughts and prayers in the weeks ahead."

Please see Patch for further details and information when they become available