Youngstown, Ohio – A tragic gas explosion at the Realty Tower downtown claimed the life of one man, identified as 27-year-old Akil Drake, an employee of Chase Bank. The explosion occurred in the basement of the building where the bank leased space for a branch. Mayor Jamael Tito Brown expressed condolences to Drake’s family and colleagues during a news conference on Wednesday morning. Brown described the heartbreaking task of informing a mother that her son had left for work one day and not returned.
The Ohio Fire Marshal is leading the investigation into the explosion, with details on the cause yet to be determined. Authorities are waiting for the State Fire Marshal’s report to shed light on the circumstances leading to the tragic event. The explosion investigations bureau, along with city police and fire departments, are also conducting a joint investigation.
It was reported that one of the victims initially unaccounted for had been found and transported to a hospital. The building and surrounding area have been closed off for safety reasons, with a structural engineer assessing the building’s stability. Officials urged the public to steer clear of the area due to potential hazards from loose debris.
The building owner, YO Properties 47 LLC, released a statement expressing shock and sadness over the loss of life and injuries caused by the explosion. They are cooperating with government agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly. Residents reported crews working in the building basement at the time of the explosion, and investigations are underway to determine what led to the tragic event.
Emergency counseling services are being offered to those impacted by the explosion, with mental health support available through local agencies. Meanwhile, transportation services have resumed following road closures caused by the incident. The community is rallying together to support those affected by the tragedy, offering assistance and updates as needed.