Tall building in Rio collapses killing at least two following reports of gas explosion

A multi-storey tower in Rio de Janeiro has collapsed killing at least two people after a possible natural gas explosion.

Authorities said two bodies had been found in the wreckage.

Rubble was strewn across the surrounding area covering motor vehicles. Witnesses said they smelt gas and heard an explosion just before the building - thought to be a commercial tower of more than five storeys - collapsed.

The tower was located close to Rio’s historic Teatro Municipal and the Fine Arts Museum, both of which appeared undamaged although a closer building has been affected.

The collapse occurred after 8pm last night (Wednesday).

Police cordoned off the area and the street’s electricity supply was cut off as a safety precaution.

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