A gas station explosion in southeastern Rome on Friday injured at least 25 people, including nine police officers and a firefighter. The blast occurred shortly after 8 a.m., sending up a massive cloud of smoke and fire that was visible from several areas of the city.
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri said local police and firefighters rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a gas leak. Two explosions followed, causing widespread damage. Fifteen firefighting teams were deployed to bring the fire under control.
Police spokeswoman Elisabetta Accardo confirmed that 16 residents were injured, with two in severe conditions and hospitalized at Rome’s Casilino hospital. Nine first responders were also hurt but are not in life-threatening conditions.
Rome prosecutors have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, which may be linked to a previous gas leak during the unloading of liquified petroleum gas at the station. A sports center nearby was evacuated quickly by police after the first explosion, with several children brought to safety.
Residents described the blast as extremely loud and violent, causing significant damage to surrounding buildings. Pope Leo XIV said he was praying for those affected, while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is closely following the developments.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/gas-station-explodes-rome-injuring-9-responders-123475748