Rome Petrol Station Explosion Injures Dozens
A petrol station explosion in Rome’s Prenestino neighborhood on Friday morning left at least 29 people injured, including ten police officers and a firefighter. Authorities say the blast was caused when a tanker hit a gas pipe during refueling, triggering a leak that led to two consecutive explosions. The fireball, seen rising high into the sky, sent thick black smoke over the city and damaged nearby buildings, with the shockwave heard miles away.
Emergency crews were already on the scene responding to the initial leak when the second, more powerful explosion hit. One man was pulled from a burning car, and three people remain in serious condition with burn injuries. A nearby sports center evacuated 60 children just in time, staff say if the blast had happened even an hour later, it would’ve been catastrophic. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri called the damage “enormous” and said the cause is under investigation.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she was monitoring the situation closely and thanked first responders for their efforts. Pope Leo also shared his prayers for the victims, saying, “I continue to follow the developments of this tragic incident with concern.” Firefighters confirmed the blaze was under control, but cleanup and investigations are ongoing.
