At least 15 people were injured in Wappingers Falls, New York Thursday, following an explosion that leveled a building.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE Friday, Paul Italiano, the police commissioner for the Wappingers Falls Police Department, said that first responders arrived following a report of a gas leak and then an explosion in the area of Brick Row around 12:17 p.m.
“Upon arrival, [an] initial responding officer encountered two children and a mother with severe blast injuries and burns. Additional victims who were working at the location were located in the immediate area,” Italiano said, adding that the Wappinger Falls Fire Department “simultaneously worked to free a trapped worker from under the rubble.”
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“Out of the 15 victims, at this time seven have been treated and released. Eight are at Westchester Medical Center [with their] status undisclosed,” Italiano confirmed.
According to Italiano, authorities do not “believe there is any criminal aspect to this case,” but the Wappingers Falls Police Department Detective Division is conducting an investigation of the incident.
“Central Hudson workers arrived at the location shortly after the report of an explosion to secure the area and turn off natural gas in the neighborhood,” the post continued. “We will continue to work with all authorities to make sure there is a complete and thorough investigation into the incident.”
New York Gov.Kathy Hochulalso released a statement about the incident, writing: “I have been briefed on the building collapse in Dutchess County and have deployed State emergency services personnel to assist in response efforts. As the situation develops, I urge all New Yorkers to follow the direction of law enforcement and other first responders working to keep the community safe.”
“I join all New Yorkers in praying for the Village of Wappingers Falls,” she added.
PEOPLE reached out to the office of Wappingers Falls Mayor Kevin Huber for comment.
source: people.com
