Three dead, dozen missing after explosion at apartment block on Channel island of Jersey

At least three people have died, and a dozen are missing after an explosion and fire at an apartment building in the British Channel island of Jersey.

Police have declined to speculate on the cause but residents had reported the smell of gas the night before the blast.

CNN reports the situation has not been designated as a terrorist incident, although authorities are investigating all avenues.

Chief Officer of the State of Jersey Police Robin Smith says the three-story building has completely collapsed, describing the situation as a devastating scene.

He says a number of flats had been evacuated, adding that between 20 and 30 people had been taken to a nearby town hall for shelter.

A search and rescue operation for those unaccounted for has commenced.

Source: CNN