Youngstown, Ohio – An explosion in downtown Youngstown on Tuesday afternoon resulted in seven injuries and one fatality. The deceased was identified as 27-year-old Akil Drake, a Penn Hills High School graduate who worked at the Chase Bank located in the building where the explosion occurred. The Penn Hills School District expressed condolences to Akil’s family and others affected by the tragic event, highlighting his achievements as a student-athlete.
All individuals involved in the incident have been located, including a woman initially believed to be missing, who was later found at a hospital under a different name. The front of the Realty Building on East Federal Street sustained severe damage, with images showing the complete destruction of the facade. The building houses a Chase Bank, and safety officials have restricted access to the Realty building and the neighboring Double Tree hotel, while nearby International Towers remain accessible.
Concerns about the structural integrity of the building led to a halt in sending firefighters as a precaution. Enbridge Gas representatives stated that the cause of the explosion is currently unknown, with investigations by the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office underway. Public safety measures have been implemented, including shutting off gas to the entire block to contain the area.
Mercy Health-Youngstown reported seven injuries from the explosion, with one individual in critical condition placed on a ventilator. Enbridge Gas extended condolences to those impacted, urging the public to avoid the area until further notice. Local officials, including JPMorgan Chase representatives and Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown, are coordinating efforts to assess the situation and determine the extent of the damage.
The community, emergency responders, and utility personnel are actively involved in the aftermath of the explosion, ensuring safety and investigating the incident further. Communication lines remain open for emergency purposes, as authorities work to address the aftermath of the tragic event in Youngstown, Ohio.