“The initial indications is this was an intentional act.”
At least 29 people have been injured following an explosion in New York City in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The explosion occurred on the West Side of the borough of Manhattan, in the crowded Chelsea neighbourhood, at around 9pm local time (1am UK time). A second device with wiring was found blocks away, authorities say.
Chelsea is a fashionable area of the city and known for its bars, restaurants and nightlife. It is particularly busy on Saturday nights.
The cause of the blast remains unclear, but Mayor Bill de Blasio confirmed “The initial indications is this was an intentional act,” before adding “We also want to be upfront saying that there is no evidence at this point of a terror connection to this incident.”
Local officials have confirmed that the second device appeared to be a pressure cooker attached to wiring and a mobile phone. It was discovered in time and safely removed.
None of the reported injuries are life-threatening, but authorities say at least one is serious. The White House have confirmed that President Barack Obama is being kept updated with the latest information.
