At least two people injured after EXPLOSION tears through US university building
AT LEAST two people have been injured after an explosion ripped through a building at Murray State university in Kentucky.
There has been an explosion on a US university campus
Images show large parts of facade of the Richmond Hall building – which serves as a residence for students – have been destroyed with debris scattered over a large area.
The residence is home to around 268 residents, according the university’s website.
Murray State warned people to stay away from the area
The university, in the city of Murray in the state, said on Twitter: “There was an explosion at Richmond Hall.
“Emergency Personnel are on the scene. Stay out of the area.”
President of the university, Bob Davies, said in a statement: “At 4:53 p.m. this afternoon, an explosion occurred in New Richmond Hall.
“The cause of the explosion is believed to be a gas leak. Individuals are being asked to stay out of the affected area until emergency officials have given the all clear.
“Any on-campus visitors within the affected area are being relocated. Counseling services will be provided as needed.”
Debris was sent flying across the nearby car park
Murray State plays host to the annual Governor’s School Programme event, which has tweeted that all its participants have been accounted for.
Calloway County Emergency Management Director Clay Call told local media he believed a gas leak may have been the cause of the blast.
The university, located almost 7 miles (11 km) from the Tennessee border, hosts just under 11,000 students.