A petrol station explosion in southeastern Rome has led to the injury of at least 40 individuals, including 11 police officers and a firefighter. Fortunately, prompt rescue actions prevented a more devastating tragedy, as confirmed by local authorities and rescuers.
The explosion, which occurred shortly after 8 am, created a large plume of dark smoke visible throughout the city. According to Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, local police and firefighters quickly responded to reports of a gas leak. Upon their arrival, two subsequent explosions were triggered.
To mitigate potential harm, police evacuated a nearby sports centre, enabling them to clear the area of residents prior to the second explosion, thus averting a more serious disaster. Among the injured, 24 residents, including two in critical condition, were admitted to Rome’s Casilino hospital. Fortunately, the police, carabinieri, and the firefighter injured are reported to be in stable condition.
Fifteen firefighting teams were deployed to manage the blaze following the explosion. Meanwhile, investigators have launched an inquiry into the cause, speculating that it may be linked to a previous gas leak during the unloading of liquified petroleum gas.
The sports centre’s president, Fabio Balzani, highlighted the significance of timing, noting that had the explosions occurred half an hour later, a summer camp filled with children would have been at risk. Witness accounts describe the explosion’s destructive force resembling an earthquake, with nearby buildings suffering damage.
Among those affected, Barbara Belardinelli recounted the terrifying moment she and her daughter experienced the flames. She recalled panicking as they rushed outside, only to be caught in a ball of fire and debris upon the second explosion. Pope Leo XIV expressed his prayers for those impacted, while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the swift response, emphasizing that the effective emergency measures were crucial in preventing further casualties.
The incident has shaken the local community, with residents still in shock from the unexpected violence of the explosion, which left windows shattered and buildings damaged.