A powerful explosion ripped through a gas station in southeastern Rome early Friday morning, shaking buildings and prompting a swift emergency response.
According to Breitbart, at least 20 people were injured when a reported leak ignited two separate blasts, leading to chaos, an evacuation, and an official investigation into the cause.
The incident took place shortly after 8 a.m. in the southeastern part of the Italian capital. Emergency crews, including local police and fire services, had arrived at the site following reports of a gas leak in the area. But before mitigation efforts could fully begin, two explosions occurred in rapid succession. The first blast prompted widespread alarm, triggering an urgent evacuation of nearby facilities, including a neighboring sports center. Police quickly evacuated children from the center, ensuring their safety in the aftermath. Moments later, a second explosion hit, causing further concern for first responders and residents alike.
Witnesses said they heard a booming noise that seemed to reverberate throughout large parts of the city. A dense plume of smoke and flame billowed into the sky, visible from districts far beyond the explosion site. Residents compared the force of the blast to an earthquake, saying nearby buildings shook under the pressure.
Emergency Teams Respond Amid Hazardous Conditions
Authorities said the explosion injured at least 20 people, including several members of the emergency services who had arrived to examine the gas leak. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri stated that about 20 individuals were hurt, describing their wounds as minor in most cases. He confirmed that the explosion happened after emergency responders reached the scene.
"Two explosions followed after they arrived," Gualtieri said, emphasizing the difficult conditions first responders faced. A total of ten fire department units were deployed, working to contain flames and prevent the spread of damage to nearby structures.
Among the injured were eight police officers and one firefighter. Elisabetta Accardo, a spokesperson for the Roman police, explained that officers sustained burn injuries but were not in life-threatening condition. "There were a few chain explosions after the first one," she added, describing how quickly the situation escalated.
Officials Launch Investigation Into Blast’s Origin
Fire department spokesperson Luca Cari confirmed that one member of his team was also harmed but was recovering from non-serious injuries. He praised the rapid effort of responders amidst hazardous conditions and shifting safety threats.
Prosecutors in Rome have launched an investigation to determine the exact source and cause of the initial gas leak that led to the explosions. Investigators are also exploring whether structural or procedural failures played a role in the incident. They are inspecting adjacent buildings for potential damage and checking if residents may be trapped or injured. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the leak originated from the gas station’s infrastructure or external pipelines. They also have not released official conclusions about whether both explosions were directly linked or if one may have triggered the second.
Reaction From Political And Religious Leaders
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni issued a public statement expressing concern, saying she was closely following updates as the investigation proceeded. She extended her thoughts to those affected while praising emergency personnel for their rapid response.
Pope Leo XIV commented on the situation through a Vatican spokesperson, offering prayers for the victims and those aiding the recovery. He noted with concern that the explosion occurred “in the heart of my Diocese,” emphasizing the personal impact the news had on him and members of the Catholic Church in the region.
Residents have come forward through local media, describing the scenes of panic and alarm that unfolded. "It struck the buildings like an earthquake," one local said, recalling how windows shattered and doors were blown open from the force of the blast. Many described fleeing their homes in confusion and fear.
Ongoing Safety Measures And Public Updates
As the investigation continues, local officials have cordoned off the blast area and restricted access to safety personnel only. Emergency workers are using the opportunity to comb through rubble and assess further risks. The evacuation of the sports center remained in effect through Friday afternoon. Police are also conducting wellness checks on neighboring residences. These safety sweeps aim not only to assess physical safety but also to ensure psychologically informed support is available for those traumatized by the event.
Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid the area due to ongoing hazards and potential disruptions. Rome’s emergency coordination office has indicated that recovery crews will remain on-site for several days as investigators complete their work.
