An explosion hit downtown Central City near the main square. Emergency crews are on scene and authorities have launched an investigation.
Topics covered
Critical: explosion rocks downtown Central City near main square
The facts
Who: emergency services, local authorities and civilians near the main square.
What: A powerful explosion struck the main square, damaging storefronts and vehicles and causing multiple casualties.
When: At approximately 08:12 local time on 28 February 2026.
Where: Downtown Central City, the main square and surrounding streets.
Why: Authorities have not confirmed a cause. An official investigation has been opened and all lines of inquiry remain active.
Our reporters on scene confirm emergency teams are treating the wounded and securing the area.
Official sources are coordinating search and rescue operations.
What’s next
Investigators will examine the blast site and review surveillance and witness statements. Police and public safety agencies have urged residents to avoid the area.
FLASH – The situation is rapidly evolving: authorities will issue updates as they are available.
Our reporters will follow developments and report verified information only.
the facts
FLASH – emergency services remain on site after a powerful detonation near the main square. Our reporters on scene confirm a heavy emergency presence, with multiple ambulances and fire units operating inside a police cordon.
Police have sealed a two-block radius. Public transport through the area is suspended. Witnesses reported a loud blast and a shockwave that shattered windows within a 150-meter radius.
Authorities have confirmed several injured and at least one confirmed fatality, pending formal identification.
details from official sources
Police spokesperson Inspector Maria Alvarez told reporters: “We are treating this as an active incident. Evacuation and first-responder operations remain the priority. Further details will be released once verified.”
Fire chief Daniel O’Neill said: “Structural damage assessment is ongoing. We ask residents to avoid the area and follow official instructions.”
The situation is rapidly evolving. Our reporters will follow developments and report only verified information.
on-the-ground verification
Police and emergency crews at the scene report visible debris, damaged storefronts and a damaged tram. A casualty triage point has been established two blocks from the main square. Traffic diversions are in effect and several nearby streets remain closed.
Responders are conducting systematic searches and clearing hazards before controlled access is allowed. Medical teams are treating and stabilizing injured people at the triage point. Authorities are prioritizing movement of severely wounded to hospitals.
timeline of events
08:12 — Explosion reported in the main square.
08:15 — First emergency calls; police and fire units dispatched.
08:25 — Area cordoned off; public transport suspended.
08:40 — Triage and evacuations under way; initial casualty figures provided by authorities on site.
public safety instructions
Authorities ask the public to avoid downtown Central City. People in the area should follow police directions and not approach the scene. Do not attempt to move injured persons unless instructed by emergency personnel.
Consult official municipal channels for verified information on road closures, shelter locations and reunification points for displaced residents. Expect continued disruptions to public transport and local services while crews secure the area.
the facts
Who: emergency services and specialist police units. What: a large explosion in downtown Central City. When: ongoing response. Where: the sealed city centre. Why: cause still under investigation.
what happens next
Investigators will review forensic evidence, CCTV and witness statements. Our reporters on scene confirm teams are prioritising scene safety and evidence preservation.
Transport authorities will continue to suspend services through the affected corridor. Expect continued disruptions to public transport and local services while crews secure the area.
Authorities have established an information line for relatives and witnesses and set up a temporary family assistance point nearby.
latest update
AGGIORNAMENTO ORE 09:30 — Police confirm the scene remains secure. Specialist units are en route. More information will follow as investigators report findings.
Our reporters on scene confirm access restrictions remain in place. The situation is rapidly evolving; official briefings will provide verifiable updates.
Reporter: John Carter. On location in downtown Central City.
