Three dead as blast rocks central Madrid
A LOUD explosion apparently caused by a gas leak has partially destroyed a residential building in the centre of Spain’s capital, killing three people and injuring at least eight more, according to officials.
The first images and footage shared on social media showed a tower of smoke coming out from the six-storey building and rubble scattered in Toledo Street, near the city centre.
Emergency crews could be seen aiding several people on the ground. Mayor Jose Luis Martinez Almeida said that the initial assessment was that the blast was caused by a gas leak.
A nearby nursing home was evacuated although no injuries were initially reported among the residents. Mr Martinez Almeida said the residents were being taken to a hotel across the street.