Police are currently responding to reports of a large explosion in the major British city of Leicester.
The situation is being treated as an ongoing “major incident.”
“All emergency services are currently dealing with this,” police said in a brief statement. “Please avoid the area.”
Twitter users posted video of the burning building shortly after the explosion.
WATCH:
This footage shows the aftermath of an apparent explosion in the Hinckley Road area of Leicester. Police have declared a “major incident.” More information as we get it. pic.twitter.com/ghVIGEYjdk
— BBC East Midlands (@bbcemt) February 25, 2018
WATCH:
Breaking news. Live at the scene https://t.co/gitedpmXLi pic.twitter.com/Q52La5akL9
— Leicester Media (@Leicestermedia) February 25, 2018
WATCH:
WATCH:
A major operation is underway following a huge explosion at a convenience store in Leicester. #9News https://t.co/Q4b8DyZF8l pic.twitter.com/laQrKvItJ7
— Nine News Australia (@9NewsAUS) February 25, 2018
Sky News reports the explosion is not currently being treated as a terrorist incident.
Sky Sources say there are no early indications that the explosion in Leicester was connected to terrorist activity
— Sky News Newsdesk (@SkyNewsBreak) February 25, 2018
“People grabbed blankets and ran towards the fire to try to help people,” an eye witness explained. “There was rubble and shop fittings everywhere.”
“I saw people pulling up chunks of rubble and searching for people underneath.”
Preliminary reports indicate the building was a multi-storied convenience store and apartment.
Traffic patterns on and around Hinkley Road have currently been suspended as emergency responders fight the fire.
The cause of the blast remains unknown, although a hazmat team is reportedly on scene investigating. The authorities are currently conducting rescue operations. An unknown number of people are believed to be trapped in the rubble.
This is an ongoing situation. The Daily Caller will update this article with new information as it becomes available.
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