Explosion Rocks Central Paris: Multiple Injuries Reported, Cause Yet to be Determined

 Design School and Catholic Education Headquarters Damaged in Devastating Blast

In central Paris, a significant explosion has resulted in the injury of 37 individuals, with four in critical condition. The incident occurred at a building that housed a design school and the headquarters of the Catholic education system in Rue Saint-Jacques, located in the city's fifth arrondissement. As emergency personnel comb through the wreckage, two people are currently unaccounted for.

Witnesses reported a strong gas odor preceding the blast, leading local deputy mayor Edouard Civel to suggest a "gas explosion" as the cause on social media. However, authorities have yet to determine the exact trigger of the explosion. Initial investigations by Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau, who arrived at the scene, indicated that the blast originated within the building adjacent to the Val de Grâce church.

While the building initially caught fire, the blaze was eventually brought under control by Paris police chief Laurent Nunez. The affected area has been cordoned off, and Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has visited the scene. Sniffer dogs have been employed to locate potential victims still trapped under the debris.

Situated near the Latin Quarter, a popular tourist destination known for its student population, the vicinity of the explosion attracts significant foot traffic. The incident has prompted the evacuation of nearby buildings, including the iconic Pantheon monument. The destroyed design school, frequented by foreign students, collapsed in the wake of the explosion.

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed that 33 people sustained injuries, with four in critical condition, while two individuals remain missing. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities assess the extent of the damage caused by this devastating incident.