A third person has died following a devastating explosion at the Bristol Health and Rehab Center in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania. The explosion, which occurred on December 23, was believed to be caused by a natural gas leak. The latest victim, a 66-year-old woman, succumbed to her injuries on Monday (January 5), as reported by LevittownNow.com.
The explosion claimed the lives of a staff nurse and two residents, and injured 20 others. Authorities are still investigating the incident, with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other agencies involved. Meanwhile, four survivors have filed a lawsuit against the facility's operators and PECO, the natural gas supplier. The plaintiffs, including a former resident and two healthcare aides, allege "overwhelming negligence" by the defendants. They claim that reports of a gas leak were ignored, leading to the explosion.
According to Lock Haven, the lawsuit asserts that the defendants failed to evacuate the building despite the strong odor of gas. PECO workers were reportedly on-site investigating a leak when the explosion occurred. The plaintiffs seek unspecified damages for physical and psychological injuries.
Saber Healthcare, which acquired the facility in December, stated that they are cooperating with the investigation but declined to comment on the litigation. PECO also refrained from commenting due to the ongoing NTSB investigation.
The explosion has raised concerns about safety protocols and the responsibility of natural gas distributors. The plaintiffs' legal team, led by Robert J. Mongeluzzi, aims to hold those responsible accountable for the tragedy. The case highlights the need for stringent safety measures in facilities housing vulnerable populations.