French fire service officials have said that a powerful explosion and fire at a Paris bakery has left over 36 people injured, with 12 fighting for life. The massive blast that rocked the French capital on Saturday morning, blasting out windows and overturning cars, is believed to be linked to a gas leak, according to authorities.
Firefighters pulled injured victims out of windows and evacuated residents as smoke billowed out of the building on Rue de Trevise in the 9th arrondissement of north-central Paris. Witnesses described on French television the overwhelming sound of the blast after the incident at 9am local time (8am GMT). Charred debris and broken glass covered the pavement around the apartment building housing the bakery, which resembled a blackened carcass. A Paris police spokeswoman said several injuries were reported to police but no deaths.
Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said “the situation is under control” but warned the explosion had caused a “heavy toll.” Speaking from the scene, he said some 200 firefighters said were involved in the operation. An investigation was opened, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office, which would not comment on what possible causes were being investigated. Parisians were urged to avoid the area while crews responded to the fire.
French television showed emergency vehicles surrounding the area. Silver-helmeted firefighters and red fire engines filled the street and inspected adjoining courtyards. Debris from a burned car and broken glass littered the pavement. A vehicle from gas company GRDF was stationed nearby. Pictures shared on social media showed the large extent of the blast. The explosion came amid heavy security in Paris and around France for yellow vest protests expected later on Saturday.
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