Multiple injuries in improvised explosive device blast in Manhattan
New York Fire Department has confirmed that an improvised explosive device was the likely cause of a blast in Manhattan which resulted in multiple injuries, Reuters reported. According to preliminary reports, the bomb had been stuffed inside a dumpster.
The outdoor explosion occurred at 135 23rd Street, between Sixth and Seventh avenues in New York City. The New York Police Department confirmed details of the blast, PIX11 reported.
I have not idea of what just happened . A huge explosion next to my building in #Chelsea #nyc #manhattan #explosion pic.twitter.com/p71SJDR10Q
— Danilo Gabrielli (@DaniloGabrielli) September 18, 2016
At least three people were seen being taken away from the apparent scene of the blast in ambulances, Reuters reported. Meanwhile according to PIX11, preliminary reports indicated at least 14 people had sustained minor injuries.
Bomb in the trashcan! #Chelsea #Manhattan pic.twitter.com/HSgV2JM2vI
— CameliaEntekhabifard (@CameliaFard) September 18, 2016
Twitter users, citing the police scanner, alleged that the blast could have been caused by an improvised explosive device. PIX 11 also reported that the blast was due to a pipe bomb that had been placed in a garbage can in Seaside Park, New Jersey.
The NYPD Counterterrorism Unit is now at the scene, while witnesses report on Twitter that police are conducting searches in the vicinity of the explosion, checking for possible secondary devices.
BREAKING NEWS: FDNY CONFIRM 26 INJURIES IN MANHATTAN EXPLOSION. pic.twitter.com/BYLlTLMUUO
— Breaking News Feed (@pzf) September 18, 2016
The explosion. Was so strong the entire neighborhood are on the street. We still have no idea. #nyc #manhattan pic.twitter.com/j9vncNfPHu
— Danilo Gabrielli (@DaniloGabrielli) September 18, 2016
The FDNY is at the scene with the NYPD in Chelsea, a neighborhood on the West Side of the borough of Manhattan in New York City. Emergency crews arrived at the about 8:30pm, a witness and FDNY spokesman told NY Daily News.
