London Hyatt gas explosion - A suspected gas explosion at the basement of a London five star hotel caused the building to collapse on Friday, injuring 14 people.
After the explosion, reports indicate that up to 500 guests were evacuated from the Churchill Hyatt Regency Hotel located in Central London's West End at Portman Square.
The London Hyatt gas explosion, which reportedly started from the kitchen area of the plush lodging, occurred at around 11:40p.m. Firefighters and paramedics were quick to respond.
London Ambulance has revealed that up to 9 guests received medical check-up at the scene. About 12 Hyatt staff were reportedly also treated, and those who sustained far more serious injuries were taken to the St Mary's Hospital.
"No guests were injured, and all guests were evacuated to nearby hotels. Hyatt's top priority is the safety and well being of our guests and associates, and we are currently working to provide guests with accommodations while we evaluate whether the hotel suffered any significant damage," the hotel said in a statement.
Local sources say around 80 firefighters arrived at the scene to quell the fire after the London Hyatt gas explosion. They arrived at the peak of the flame and worked with gas specialists.
London Fire Brigade has revealed that firefighters were able to deal with the collapsing building by using specialist equipments. Metropolitan Police officials were also at the scene of the London Hyatt gas explosion to help.
Authorities say it is unclear the extent of damage the London Hyatt gas explosion may have caused. An assessment is reportedly underway into what may have caused the explosion in the basement of the luxury hotel. The hotel reportedly has over 400 rooms and suites.
