Seniors need food after apartment explosion

AUSTINTOWN TOWNSHIP, Ohio — The Board of Mahoning County Commissioners was grateful for community support after an explosing at the Phoenix House Senior Living Aapartment complex, causing several to be evacuated.

“Our heartfelt thanks go out to all of our first responders, Austintown Township and all of our partnered agencies, who quickly arrived on the scene, successfully evacuated individuals, transported them to alternate locations, screened them for medication needs and secured temporary living arrangements,” a recent release reads.

There was an explosion at the complex on North Meridian Road in Austintown Township on Saturday, according to a press release from the Board of Mahoning County Commissioners.

The board states that first responders are offering aid to everyone affected, evacuating residents and “assessing the situation.” They said the explosion caused “significant structural damage to the building.”

“The Commissioners’ are devastated by this incident and are focused on the safety and well-being of the residents and our community,” the release reads. “The Commissioners’ priority is to support our first responders to ensure that all those affected will receive the necessary medical attention, shelter and assistance!”

Officials are asking the public to avoid the area and allow emergency personnel to work.

“The Commissioners’ are coordinating and working with all local and surrounding agencies to provide shelter and resources for displaced residents to be moved from The Phoenix House to the Austintown Elementary School and the Austintown Senior Center,” the release reads.

They also note that Animal Charity and the Mahoning County Dog Warden are working to shelter any animals that were displaced.

While they do not know the cause of the explosion, they said updates will be provided as they get more information.

“We thank our brave first responders and emergency personnel for their rapid response and dedication to keeping our community safe,” the release reads.

The board is still looking for help providing food to residents who are being housed in hotels.

Anyone who wants to drop off food items for displaced residents should drop them off at the Austintown Senior Center located at 112 Westchester Drive.