A powerful explosion occurred Friday at a hotel under construction in central Havana, killing at least 8 people and injuring about 30, according to an initial report.
The facade of the Saratoga Hotel, a 5 -star rating with 96 rooms, two restaurants and a rooftop swimming pool, was severely damaged by the force of the explosion that occurred just after 11 am local time.
Preliminary findings indicate that the explosion was caused by a gas leaksaid the Cuban presidency on Twitter.
A cloud of smoke and dust rose from the Prado, the main avenue in the heart of Havana where the hotel is located, near the Capitol.
The first four floors were completely washed away, and the floor was filled with debris and broken glass, theAFP.
Several vehicles were also destroyed near this hotel, which has been known to host several celebrities in recent years, including Madonna and Beyoncé.
Rescuers closed in large numbers the perimeter and searched for possible victims in the rubble at the foot of the hotel.
President Miguel Diaz-Canel arrived there at noon, accompanied by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero and the President of the National Assembly, Esteban Lazo.
Source: Radio-Canada
