An explosion in central Paris has caused injuries to at least 50 individuals, according to the French government. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and ongoing rescue efforts are

underway by firefighters at the scene.

The blast, which occurred on Wednesday, has resulted in 50 people sustaining minor injuries, while six individuals are in critical condition, fighting for their lives. Additionally, two individuals are still unaccounted for, as reported by the Paris prosecutor's office.

The extent of the damage caused by the explosion is substantial, posing challenges for the rescue teams working diligently to provide assistance.

Eyewitnesses described the explosion as powerful, with fragments of glass from the affected building being propelled up to 400 meters away. Some witnesses even initially mistook it for a bombing incident, highlighting the intensity of the blast.

The Paris prosecutor's office has launched an investigation to determine the precise cause of the incident. The explosion took place yesterday afternoon in a historic 17th-century building situated on Saint-Jacques Street in the city's fifth district, near the Panthéon. Following the explosion, fires broke out in several adjacent buildings, exacerbating the emergency situation.

Reports from witnesses indicate that moments before the tragedy unfolded, there was a strong smell of gas permeating the streets, adding a potential clue to the investigation.

As the rescue operation continues, authorities are actively working to ensure the safety of all affected individuals and ascertain the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident in Paris. Photo by xiquinhosilva from Cacau, Wikimedia commons.