In Rome, a gas station explosion has rocked the southeastern part of the Italian capital, leaving at least 25 people injured, including nine police officers and a firefighter.
Shortly after 8 a.m. local time, a powerful blast was heard across Rome, sending a massive plume of dark smoke and flames into the sky. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri reports that local authorities responded to initial calls about a gas leak, only to be met with two subsequent explosions.
According to Rome’s police spokeswoman, Elisabetta Accardo, 16 civilians were among the injured, with two in severe condition at the Casilino hospital. The nine law enforcement officers and one firefighter injured are not facing life-threatening conditions, a small mercy in this tragic event.
Rome prosecutors have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, with early indications suggesting a possible connection to a gas leak during the unloading of liquefied petroleum gas at the station.
This incident has disrupted daily life in the area. A nearby sports center was swiftly evacuated, with children brought to safety. Residents report feeling the blast “like an earthquake,” with windows shattered and shutters torn from buildings.
While the swift response of emergency services likely prevented further casualties, questions remain about the safety protocols in place at urban gas stations.
Pope Leo XIV has expressed his prayers for those affected, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is closely monitoring the situation. As firefighting teams continue their efforts to control the blaze, the people of Rome are left to grapple with the aftermath of this unexpected disaster.
