A house in Syracuse, New York, collapsed on Tuesday, possibly due to a gas explosion, injuring ten people and leaving up to 12 more trapped as firefighters continue search and rescue efforts amid a heat wave.

The collapse, which occurred around 4 p.m. ET on June 18, 2024, has left at least ten people hospitalized, with eight in serious condition on advanced life support. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with officials believing up to 12 victims, including children, may still be trapped inside the debris. The incident has drawn attention to safety protocols amid extreme weather, as the high temperatures pose additional risks to first responders. Although a gas explosion is suspected, National Grid reported no leaks prior to the collapse, and the cause remains undetermined.

Firefighters and emergency medical personnel have described the scene as chaotic and challenging. First responders reported finding multiple victims spread out around the building, likely thrown from the structure by the force of the collapse. The strong odor of gas at the scene fuelled early speculation that a gas explosion could be the cause, yet National Grid maintains that their lines showed no signs of leaks before the incident.

About 20 residents were believed to have lived in the building, raising concerns for those unaccounted for. Family members and neighbors gathered nearby, anxiously awaiting news about loved ones. The potential existence of up to 12 people still trapped within the wreckage has made the search and rescue efforts even more urgent.

"We're working tirelessly to reach every possible survivor and ensure their safe removal from the site," said the lead firefighter on scene. The combination of the building collapse and concurrent heat wave has added complexity to the emergency response, as firefighters must manage the risks associated with heat exhaustion.

Among the injured are several children, adding another layer of urgency and heartbreak to the situation. Medical teams at the local hospitals are on high alert, with eight of those hospitalized reportedly in serious condition and requiring advanced life support treatments.

Officials haven't determined the exact cause of the collapse yet. "We're looking at all possibilities," said a spokesperson for the fire department. Investigators are meticulously going through the debris to find clues. While the presence of gas was noted, no gas leaks were reported prior to the incident, puzzling the investigators.

The impact of the explosion was not contained to the immediate area of the house. Reports indicate that power lines were down at the scene, and a car was discovered under the collapsed structure. These additional hazards have made rescue operations especially dangerous and slow.

Governor Kathy Hochul has been actively involved, stating she has been in contact with Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh to coordinate state support for the rescue efforts and ongoing investigation. The governor expressed her concern and pledged that all necessary resources will be directed towards handling the tragedy.

The collapse has left the local community in shock. Immediate neighbors described a powerful blast that was heard and felt blocks away. "It was like an earthquake," said one resident living nearby. The community has rallied to support the victims and their families, with local shelters and businesses opening their doors to provide relief and supplies.

A thorough investigation will be crucial in determining the root cause of the explosion and subsequent collapse. Safety officials are likely to scrutinize various aspects of the building’s maintenance records, structural integrity, and any potential issues with utility connections.

As emergency responders continue their work, the critical priority remains the rescue of those who may still be trapped. Heat exhaustion among firefighters, complicated debris, and the uncertainty about the building’s stability continue to pose challenges. Nevertheless, the focus on saving lives remains unwavering during these difficult circumstances.