BANGKOK -- A construction crane fell onto a moving passenger train, causing a fiery derailment that killed at least 29 people Wednesday in northeastern Thailand. Another 64 people were injured and rescuers were still searching the wreckage and giving first aid. The derailment occurred on part of an ambitious planned high-speed rail project that will eventually connect China with much of Southeast Asia.
Photos published in Thai media showed plumes of white then dark smoke above the scene, and construction equipment hanging down from between two concrete support pillars. Rescue workers stood on top of overturned railways carriages, some of them with gaping holes torn on their sides, video from public broadcaster ThaiPBS showed. What appeared to be sections of the crane were scattered along the track. Meanwhile, paramedics gave first aid to injured passengers.
A natural gas line leak triggered a dramatic explosion that destroyed a Bay Area home on Thursday, injuring six people and damaging several other properties. At least one person was inside the home before it was leveled in the blast. The individual managed to escape without injury, but six others were hurt, including three who suffered serious injuries, Alameda County Fire Department spokesperson Cheryl Hurd said.
Funds raised will go directly towards easing the financial burden that comes with an accident of this scale - including helping family members travel to be with them in Australia, covering accommodation and living expenses, and supporting the lads as they recover and eventually get back on their feet.