A devastating house explosion in Jefferson City, Missouri, early Saturday morning injured six people, including three in critical condition, according to local authorities.

Emergency responders faced a challenging rescue operation lasting over three hours as they worked to remove victims from under the rubble of the collapsed building.

Eric Hoy, emergency medical services chief for Cole County, described the condition of three victims as alarming, requiring "extensive life support procedures."

All six individuals were transported to University Hospital in Columbia, with two critically injured victims airlifted by helicopter. Additionally, two pets were rescued from the debris.

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The explosion, which occurred around 2:44 a.m., caused significant structural damage, complicating rescue efforts. The Jefferson City Fire Department’s Special Operations Rescue Team employed meticulous techniques to reach the final occupant trapped beneath layers of debris.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, though no preliminary conclusions have been shared.

Local officials are urging the public to avoid the area while investigations are still ongoing.