France building collapse after blast 'kills two'

Collapsed Building

At least two people have died after an explosion partly destroyed a block of flats in the northern French city of Reims, officials say.

Mayor Adeline Hazan told BFM TV that the explosion at the four-storey building was probably caused by a gas leak.

Emergency services say at least 10 people have been injured, including a number of children.

A firefighter said there were "many victims" but could not give any more information.

Ms Hazan told BFM TV the blast - which happened at 11:15 (09:15 GMT) - had been "very strong" and had shattered windows in other buildings.

She said the bodies of the two victims remained under the rubble.

The building is reported to date from the 1960s or 70s and about a dozen flats are affected.
Source: BBC Posted by Unknown 4/28/2013