Youngstown, Ohio – First responders rushed to the site of a building explosion in downtown Youngstown, captured in body camera footage from the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office. The video shows the aftermath of the explosion, which occurred at the Realty building that houses Chase Bank and apartments, causing debris to scatter in the area.
The video obtained by WKBN shows a deputy assisting local firefighters in extracting an injured woman from the wreckage. Youngstown Mayor Jamael Tito Brown and Fire Chief Barry Finley stated that the cause of the explosion is currently under investigation, with concerns about a possible gas leak from the building being discussed in the video captured shortly after the incident.
The explosion, which tragically resulted in the death of 27-year-old Akil Drake and left seven others injured, led to speculation regarding the involvement of natural gas or workers in the basement. Mayor Brown refrained from making any definitive statements until the fire marshal’s investigation concluded. One victim remained in critical condition at the hospital, while the rest were either treated and discharged or expected to be released the following day.
Local 312 President Jon Racco commended the firefighters for their swift response and bravery in rescuing individuals in need within minutes of the initial dispatch. The dedication and courage displayed by the firefighters in the face of this emergency situation were acknowledged in a statement released by the Youngstown Professional Firefighters union.
The incident underscores the risks faced by first responders in handling such catastrophic events and highlights the importance of their rapid and effective actions in saving lives and providing aid. As the investigation proceeds, authorities will continue to piece together the circumstances that led to the tragic explosion in downtown Youngstown, Ohio.