A huge explosion at a petrol station in an eastern district of Rome on Friday injured at least 45 people, including 12 police officers and six firefighters. The blast occurred just after 8 am (0600 GMT) and was heard across the capital.
The incident is being treated as a gas leak during fuel-tank refilling operations, which caused a fire and explosion. Two people are in critical condition due to extensive burns, while five others were killed at an Eni fuel depot near Florence last December.
Children in a nearby youth centre were evacuated before the blast but were not injured. Pope Leo XIV prayed for the victims of the “tragic incident”, while Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri called it a “serious accident” that could have had more severe consequences. The police, firefighters, and emergency services are being thanked for their efforts in containing the situation.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/several-injured-rome-after-gas-station-explodes-reports-2025-07-04