28 April 2013 (13:13 UTC-07 Tango)/17 Jumada t-Tania 1434/08 Ordibehest 1391/19 Bing-Chen (3rd month) 4711

In Reims, a report of an explosion that collapsed one end of an apartment complex.  At least three people dead, ten wounded, two missing.

Pics don’t show much evidence of an explosion, but some sources say it was caused by a gas leak (it’s the second time this year that happened, in the same city).  The mayor of Reims told local media there was “a very powerful explosion”.

Officials say there is damage to nearby apartment buildings.

Reims is connected to the old French monarchy. It’s main economic activity is producing champagne.  The apartments affected by the explosion were built in the 1960s for low income families.

Unemployment in France has hit a 13 year record high rate of 11%, with youth unemployment at 25%.