... reports of numerous injuries

A fire and a suspected gas leak triggered a powerful explosion inside a bakery in downtown Paris. The blast was strong enough to damage nearby buildings, with numerous people reportedly injured.

The blast that took place on Rue de Trevise in central Paris this morning saw at least 20 people wounded, Le Figaro reported citing police sources. According to local media, a fire broke out inside the bakery before the blast that caused chaos on the adjacent streets.

Pictures and videos posted online show plumes of smoke and flames slowly consuming one of the buildings. Witnesses on the ground say many still need medical assistance.

Police have confirmed “a strong explosion” urging people to keep away from the area and make way for emergency vehicles.

Preliminary reports from the site indicate several people were injured, although there are no official updates on the situation yet. 

According to French media, the blast, possibly ignited by a gas leak, occurred inside a bakery situated in Paris’ 9th district. The area, located on the right bank of the River Seine, is home to several places of interest, including the Paris Opera, Boulevard Haussmann, and the Theatre de Paris.

Firefighters showed up at the scene shortly after the explosion. Once they arrived, they had to evacuate people who were unable to leave buildings affected by the blast.