13 injured after explosion at Aspen Aerogels in East Providence

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — East Providence Mayor Roberto DaSilva says a large emergency response remains underway following an explosion and fire at an industrial facility in the city Wednesday night.

According to the mayor, police, fire, and EMS crews responded around 8:14 p.m. to the Aspen Aerogels facility at 3 Dexter Road after reports of an explosion inside the building. First responders from multiple surrounding communities in Rhode Island and Massachusetts were called in to assist.

City officials have declared a mass casualty incident, triggering mutual aid from across the region and putting nearby hospitals on alert.

Authorities say at least 13 people have been transported to a nearby hospital. 

The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office has responded and is expected to investigate the cause of the explosion.

Traffic in the area remains impacted, with Dexter Road closed as crews continue working at the scene. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area.

Several departments, including Central Falls, Cranston, Lincoln, Pawtucket, Providence, Seekonk, and Smithfield, are assisting in the ongoing response.

Officials classified the situation as a mass casualty incident, which is a term used when the number of people requiring medical attention exceeds normal emergency response capacity. The designation triggers additional resources, coordination between agencies, and hospital readiness. It does not necessarily indicate fatalities, but rather reflects the scale of the response.