EXPLOSION AND CAVE-IN AT PTA FACILITY

From the Yakima, WA STAR-GAZETTE:

PTA Director Helen Cutter this morning appeared at a press conference to announce a terrible explosion and cave-in at the new PTA training facility outside Yakima. At approximately 3:45 a.m. this morning, an explosion of unknown origin rocked the main chamber of the underground facility, and caused a collapse of the cave roof, killing at least 45 and possibly more PTA agents in residence at the facility, along with 22 civilian staff working with the operations there. Cutter noted that rescue efforts have been started with first light, and she remains hopeful that some of those inside the cave at the time may still be found alive. However, local geologists from Washington University informed officials that with the depth of the cave, and the surrounding rock strata, almost four million metric tons of rock would have collapsed on those below, leaving little hope for survivors.

"We don't know exactly what caused the blast, but a supervillain attack cannot be ruled out. Several weeks ago, the facility did come under attack by several supers who were repelled by security systems, and along with rescue operations, we are conducting a thorough investigation into the causes for the blast. There has been tremendous loss of life, and we are saddened by the event, whatever the cause." The names of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of the families.