NEW YORK (AP) — Some debris from an explosion and fire in Manhattan's East Village is being taken to a secure site where it will be examined again for any human remains.

An official with knowledge of the operation told The Associated Press of the plans. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the operation is ongoing.

Emergency workers have been looking through the rubble for signs of two people who have been missing since Thursday's blast. The explosion and subsequent fire leveled three buildings.

The official says upper layers of debris have already been removed and workers have reached the basement level. One of the buildings contained a restaurant where the missing men are believed to have been at the time.

Workers are examining debris onsite before it is removed to the secure location.