Elbasan gas explosion kills two in apartment building collapse

A powerful gas explosion and subsequent fire in an apartment building in the Qemal Stafa neighborhood of Elbasan, Albania, have resulted in two deaths and multiple injuries. Authorities confirmed that 82-year-old Hatixhe Berisha and 69-year-old Hamit Ibro, the owner of the apartment where the incident originated, both lost their lives.

The explosion, which occurred around 14:45 on Wednesday, caused significant structural damage, including the collapse of internal walls and parts of the staircase. Ten other residents were treated for injuries and smoke inhalation at the Elbasan Regional Hospital.

Preliminary investigations by the Elbasan Police and RENEA engineers suggest the explosion was caused by an excessive accumulation of gas within the residence. The Institute of Construction has declared the building uninhabitable due to the risk of further collapse, specifically regarding the fifth floor. Emergency services, including the Albanian Armed Forces and Civil Emergencies, continue to secure the site and monitor the surrounding area.