Beijing, China—The explosion ripped through the foundation of the three-story residential structure shortly after 9:00 a.m. today. Residents in the neighborhood felt the tremor as the building pancaked into a pile of concrete and steel.

Emergency responders arrived on the scene to find thick plumes of dust rising from the wreckage. Two victims were confirmed dead after crews located their bodies beneath the primary debris field during the initial sweep.

Paramedics provided immediate care to three survivors who were pulled from the outer edges of the site. They are currently being treated for blast-related injuries at a municipal hospital.

Utility workers have shut off the main gas line for the entire block to prevent secondary explosions. They suspect a ruptured pipe in the basement level fueled the destructive force of the blast.

Local police cordoned off the streets surrounding the complex to protect the public from shifting debris. The area remains under heavy guard while heavy machinery waits to begin the systematic removal of the remaining walls.

Engineering experts are now on-site to assess whether neighboring buildings sustained structural damage. They are checking for cracks in foundations and walls to determine if a wider evacuation is necessary.

The families of the deceased have been contacted by local authorities. A temporary support center has been established in a nearby school to assist those who lost their homes in the event.

Officials are interviewing surviving residents to determine if any smell of gas had been reported in the days prior to the blast. The site remains a restricted zone for the duration of the investigation.