BREAKING: A major explosion in Canton this evening on the square left one person dead, others injured and caused massive damage to multiple businesses. More than 500 residents in the area are without power. Natural gas has been cut off to the community until further notice. The public is asked to avoid the area as a precaution while Emergency Management and clean-up crews work to secure the site.
Route 9/78 remains open but all roads within a three block area of the Canton Square are reportedly closed. Canton Police advise that personal property and vehicles will not be accessible for some time. A Salvation Army Shelter is opening to help those displaced by the course of events.
Any residents displaced by tonight's gas explosion may stay at the Salvation Army shelter at 176 South 1st Avenue, Canton.
Stay tuned for updates.