Apartment Explosion Claims Two

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Update on Apartment Explosion Emporia Fire Victims Identified Fire Intentionally Set

Emporia, KS - An explosion and fire early this morning at a local apartment complex has claimed two lives. The Emporia Fire Department responded to 707 Eastgate Plaza at 9:07 AM to a report of a building fire. While enroute fire officials were notified that there had been an explosion, which started the fire.

The first arriving fire units found the building heavily involved in fire. Crews immediately entered the building to begin searching for survivors. These crews were forced out of the building after conditions deteriorated.

The body of an adult was discovered at approximately 1:00 PM, and the body of an infant was discovered at approximately 7:09 PM.

Six other residents were treated at the scene for various Injuries and transported to Newman Hospital. One firefighter was also transported to Newman Hospital for injuries he received.

The cause of the fire and explosion is under investigation. The investigation Is being conducted by the Emporia Fire Department, Emporia Police Department. Kansas State Fire Marshal, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.

Fire damage is estimated at approximately $300,000.