2 dead, 8 injured in gas blast


dpa German Press Agency
Published: Saturday February 3, 2007

Santiago- A gas explosion in an apartment building Saturday
in the Chilean city of Valparaiso killed at least two people and left
eight others injured.
The force of the blast caused the collapse of two buildings.

Authorities fear that the death toll could rise as the wreckage is
searched for more victims. Rescuers were using dogs to search the
site.

As many as 20 families were unaccounted for, according to Chilean
media reports.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet interrupted a holiday to
inspect the accident scene.

The newspaper La Tercera reported that residents had noticed a
strong gas smell Saturday morning, minutes before the blast.

© 2006 - dpa German Press Agency