France: Rescuers find two bodies in rubble after building collapses in Marseille

Rescuers discovered two bodies in the rubble of a building that collapsed after an explosion in Marseille, France, on Sunday, according to CNN, citing the city’s fire department.

Earlier, French authorities said eight people were missing and possibly trapped, according to CNN affiliate BFMTV. However, it is unclear whether the figure includes the two bodies discovered. Marseille Mayor Benoit Payan said a “violent explosion” occurred around 12:30 a.m. (local time). Authorities have launched a search and rescue operation while they conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.

According to rescuers, 179 people have been evacuated from the site by the French Housing Authority. A fund of 100,000 euros has been established to assist the victims of the blast, according to CNN, citing Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolis.

Locals reported an explosion with a lot of dust and a gas smell in the air.
According to BFMTV, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that a fire burning within the rubble is hampering rescue efforts. Darmanin went on to say that about 30 of the surrounding buildings had been evacuated.

Marseille Prosecutor Dominique Laurens said that it was “impossible” at this stage to determine the cause of the explosion as “the situation has not yet been stabilized.” She further stated that a “gas explosion” was one lead which was being examined, as per the CNN report. However, Dominique Laurens added that it was “something they can’t confirm at this stage” of the probe.

On Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that his thoughts were with those who have been affected, as per the news report. He said, “Thoughts with Marseille, where a building on rue Tivoli collapsed last night. I am thinking of those affected and their loved ones. An investigation is continuing with significant resources deployed. Thank you to the firefighters and rescuers mobilized.”