Fatal Explosion at Bristol Township Nursing Home: NTSB Investigation and Ongoing Developments
The investigation into a fatal explosion at a Bristol Township nursing home is being led by a federal agency, with a focus on removed portions of the natural gas service line that failed. The blast at Bristol Health & Rehab Center on Tower Road on Dec. 23 was caused by a gas leak in the basement, resulting in three deaths, 19 injuries, and over 100 residents and employees being displaced. The National Transportation Safety Administration (NTSB) is examining the integrity of the natural gas line, including recovered indoor meter set and excavated portions of the service line that did not hold pressure during testing.
The NTSB's preliminary report does not provide a definitive cause for the leak but indicates that the investigation is ongoing. PECO and Saber Healthcare Group, the management consultant for the nursing home, had been investigating a suspected gas leak before the explosion. Allegations have been made in lawsuits that PECO and Saber Healthcare Group failed to evacuate the building despite reports of a strong gas odor. The NTSB report does not address whether evacuations should have occurred or other specific allegations.
Pennsylvania Department of Health inspection records reveal that the center had long struggled to meet state standards under its previous ownership, with numerous complaints resulting in violations and harm to residents. Since Saber HealthCare Group became affiliated with Bristol Health & Rehab Center on Dec. 1, efforts have been made to address longstanding issues within the facility. The federal government fined the operators over $400,000 last year, and the facility has been working with the state to make corrections.
The investigation into the explosion at the nursing home is ongoing, with the NTSB focusing on the natural gas service line. Updates on the investigation will be provided as more information becomes available.