Two children aged just three and five are dead after a horror explosion at an apartment building in France. Another four people have been injured after the gas blast, with others trapped under the rubble, local media has reported. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene in Trévoux after the explosion took place around 5.30pm, as reported by La Voix de L’Ain.

The powerful explosion is believed to have originated from the ground floor of a four-storey flat building. Fragments of flying debris reportedly struck two nearby schools and shattered numerous windows. The enormous bang was allegedly heard up to five kilometres away.

Local authorities stated: “50 firefighters and 36 vehicles, as well as medical personnel, have been mobilised to assist the victims. The two schools located nearby suffered material damage, broken windows, but school officials do not report any injuries.”

Terrifying footage captured moments after the massive blast, showing chunks of concrete strewn across the road. Police have advised residents to steer clear of the area while establishing a security perimeter.

At present, at least four individuals are receiving treatment from emergency services, with an additional two reportedly trapped under the rubble, according to linternaute.

The building’s facade is said to have partially collapsed due to the horrifying explosion.

Local residents, including children, have been evacuated and taken to an emergency unit. Shocking images reveal bits of wreckage scattered.

Locals watched in shock as the incident unfolded across the floor. Firefighters were on hand to help victims of the explosion, with police also present at the scene.

Gas services attended the aftermath, but an official cause has yet to be announced by authorities.

A resident living near the blast site told the press: “The firefighters arrived very quickly, as did the helicopter. The explosion was enormous. It was like the beginning of a war, like a bomb.”

Following the explosion, which is suspected to have been caused by a gas leak, local authorities implemented an emergency plan.

In 2023, a massive explosion in a northern Paris apartment injured five people. Over 100 firefighters attended the scene on Rue du Nord as smoke filled the air.