Fire crews were responding to a reported gas leak in the area when the blast hit.
ADVERTISEMENTPARIS — A large explosion tore through a bakery in Paris on Saturday morning, according to police.
The blast, which hit the French capital at around 9 a.m. (3 a.m. ET), triggered a fire. Police tweeted asking people to stay away and allow for emergency crews to access the area.
Officials told NBC News that firefighters were already responding to a call of a gas leak when the explosion struck.
There has been no confirmation on the number injuries or fatalities, but police officials said there are several victims.
More than 80,000 security forces had been deployed nationwide for the ninth straight weekend anticipating more anti-government protests sparked by the "yellow vest" movement.
Nancy Ing reported from Paris, and Linda Givetash from London.