Blast in Utrecht - Buildings collapse, four injured as powerful explosion rocks city's historic centre

"At least two buildings collapsed after a powerful explosion struck the historic centre of Utrecht in the Netherlands on Thursday. Emergency services rushed to the scene as fires broke out and four people were injured, with the affected area sealed off and 100 residents evacuated. Footage shows debris lying in the narrow alleyways after the explosion, with heavy damage to surrounding buildings. Smoke can be seen rising from the structures. Firefighters are also seen using ladders to enter through broken windows into unstable buildings. According to preliminary information, an accidental gas leak caused the explosion. The investigation is still ongoing. The city's Mayor, Sharon Dijksma, announced that there is currently no suspicion of criminal activity or foul play in the incident. Nearby hospitals have been put on alert to deal with casualties."