Campus police at the University of Nevada, Reno are responding to a “utilities accident” following reports of an explosion in a campus dorms on North Virginia Street this afternoon.
UNR’s chief of police confirms that eight people were injured in Friday’s explosion, with two being transported and six treated on scene.
According to the release, at 1 p.m. Friday there was an explosion caused by a possible mechanical failure that damaged Argenta and Nye Halls, two of the University’s student dorms, causing significant damage to the two buildings.
The buildings are being checked floor by floor by fire and emergency crews for structural damage and for any remaining occupants. No one is reported or believed to be missing at this time, according to Todd Renwick from UNR’s Police Services.
Virginia Street and Sierra Street will remain closed off for several hours.
Law enforcement is not looking for suspects. Firefighters were called after an initial small explosion and were at the building when a larger explosion occurred.
All classes at UNR have been canceled for the rest of the day, according to a UNR Police.
Student Raven Green told The Associated Press that she was in her room in Argenta Hall when she heard what she thought was an earthquake. She thinks the explosion occurred the floor beneath her room, where she said she still was during the interview. As she was speaking, she told The Associated Press she could see rescue operators while as she waited to be evacuated.
“It was very scary,” she said. “I’m still a little worried. I feel like nothing is happening. It’s been a long time now.”
Student, staff, and faculty is advised to check the school’s website to see where students will be relocated. For information call 775-784-1113 or 775-682-8241.
Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak tweeted that his office was aware of the situation and offering support.
