At least 13 killed as first-floor gas blast brings down part of building in Karachi

Karachi, February 19, 2026 – At least 13 people were killed and 12 others injured after a gas leak triggered an explosion in a three-storey residential building in Soldier Bazaar No 3, Karachi, rescue officials said.

The blast occurred on the first floor late Wednesday night, causing a portion of the building to collapse. Rescue teams rushed to the site and launched a large-scale search and recovery operation.

Police said initial investigations suggest the explosion was caused by a gas leak, possibly from a cylinder or a gas suction machine. Authorities are continuing to examine the exact cause of the incident.

Among the victims were a 10-year-old girl, Nazia, and a 60-year-old man, Mohammad Riaz. The body of a woman was also recovered, while the identification process for another victim is underway.

A 14-year-old girl was rescued in injured condition. Several children were among the wounded and were shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

Rescue officials said two people are still believed to be trapped under the debris. Narrow streets surrounding the building have made the rescue operation difficult.

Police have cordoned off the area and tightened security as search efforts continue. Authorities said all available resources are being used to ensure no one remains trapped.