An 80-year-old woman was killed Thursday in a powerful explosion that rocked a residential building on HaMalach Street in Jerusalem’s Old City.

According to preliminary assessments, the blast was likely caused by a gas cylinder, though authorities stressed that the exact circumstances remain under investigation.

Two additional people were injured in the incident. Earlier reports from emergency responders indicated that a woman was found in critical condition and a man suffered moderate injuries. Rescue teams performed CPR on one of the victims before the woman was later pronounced dead.

Firefighters from Jerusalem’s Egoz Station rushed to the scene and found significant structural damage to the building. Rescue crews immediately began searching the structure and surrounding area to ensure no additional victims were trapped beneath the debris.

Emergency personnel also worked to stabilize the damaged building and eliminate any immediate hazards.

Police officers from Jerusalem’s David Precinct joined fire and rescue forces at the scene, assisting with road closures, evacuation efforts, and the treatment and transport of the injured.

The investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)