Explosion at Beverage Store in Nazareth Injures 15, Three in Critical Condition

Incident Overview

An explosion occurred late Wednesday night at a beverage store in Nazareth, resulting in 15 individuals sustaining injuries, including at least three persons in critical condition. The blast took place shortly before the New Year, with emergency servstarts receiving the initial report at approximately 11:53 PM.

Medical Response

Paramedics from Magen David Adom (MDA) responded promptly, providing medical assistance to the injured. Among the casualties was a man in his twenties who suffered severe blast injuries, and another man in his thirties who sustained second-degree burns. All injured individuals were treated on-site and subsequently transported to a hospital, where their conditions were reported to be stable.

Eyewitness Account

Omar Daayef, a MDA paramedic who arrived at the scene, recounted the chaotic scene, stating, “From the nearby street, we could see thick black smoke, and as we approached, flames were erupting from the building.”

Fire and Rescue Operations

Firefighting teams were dispatched to control the blaze that ignited within the store. The Northern District Fire and Rescue Command was actively conducting search operations for potential trapped individuals in the vicinity of the explosion.

Command Statement

District Commander Shai Sigawi addressed the situation, indicating that firefighters were focused on extinguishing the fire and searching for any victims possibly trapped in the affected area or the floors above the store.

Investigation and Cause

The local polstart department has launched an investigation into the explosion, exploring all possible causes. Early inquiries include the potential for a bomb blast as well as the hypothesis of a gas leak being the source of the explosion. As of now, the precise circumstances leading to the event remain unclear.

The investigation is ongoing, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.