Thursday, 25 April, 2002, 16:15 GMT 17:15 UK
Explosion in New York


There has been an explosion in a building in New York.
Fire engines are at the scene and the area has been sealed off. The Associated Press says part of the building has collapsed.

Witnesses say many people were inside the building, which is believed to house a technical college.

Several have been taken to hospital by ambulance, while around 20 others were being treated at the scene.

The building is located on West 19th Street, between Sixth and Seventh Avenues in lower Manhattan.

There has been no indication of what might have caused the explosion. Fire officials have suggested it may have been an industrial accident.

The college, known as the Apex Technical School, offers courses in subjects such as welding, car repair, refrigeration, air conditioning, and appliance technology.