Explosion in Utrecht Injures Four, Damages Buildings

A massive explosion rocked the center of Utrecht, Netherlands, on Thursday afternoon, injuring at least four people and igniting a large fire that damaged multiple buildings, local authorities reported. The blast, which occurred around 3:30 p.m. near the Mariaplaats area, sent debris scattering across streets and prompted a swift emergency response in the historic city district.

Emergency services spokesperson Sjaak Haasnoot told reporters that the four injured individuals were transported to ambulances for medical attention, with their conditions unclear. Firefighters battled the blaze into the evening but faced challenges entering damaged structures due to instability concerns. "It is very difficult at this moment to say how many victims are under the rubble," Haasnoot said. "The fire department cannot enter the building because it is still unstable." Officials noted that additional casualties could not be ruled out as rescue operations continued.

Television footage and witness accounts captured thick plumes of smoke rising over the scene, with shattered windows, collapsed roofs, and rubble littering nearby residential streets and a parking garage. Several buildings sustained...