A restaurant in Japan has been completely destroyed in a suspected gas explosion which has killed one person and left at least 17 people injured, according to reports.
Firefighters and paramedics rushed to the scene in Koriyama, Fukushima, northeastern Japan, following the huge blast at around 9am local time on Thursday.
At least one person is understood to have died in the incident which destroyed all the walls and windows at the premises.
Pictures show only the metal frame remains standing at what is understood to house hot pot restaurant Shabu-shabu Onshi Koriyama Shin Sakura-dori.
The area is filled with businesses and homes, with two nearby bank employers and two customers understood to be among those injured.
Officials of the Fukushima-based Toho Bank say two members of its staff at a branch near the site and two customers who were using the ATM in the store have been injured, reports NHK.
They say the branch was damaged and staff and customers have been evacuated.
Local media reports the restaurant was undergoing renovation work due to finish on Friday and the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak.
One member of staff at a nearby bank told Kyodo News : "I've never experienced such a strong impact, with this heavy thud."
A neighbour added: "I heard a sound like something fell on my house and felt a strong shaking."
White smoke was seen rising from the site as aerial footage showed rescue workers shifting through the debris.
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