Gas Station Blast in Rome Injures 21, Prime Minister Meloni Offers Condolences and Support

A major explosion at a petrol and LPG station in Rome’s Centocelle area left at least 21 people injured on Friday morning. The explosion, which happened around 8:20 am, caused significant damage to surrounding buildings and vehicles. The initial assessment indicates a technical fault during refuelling. Five individuals were hospitalized with minor burns and injuries from broken glass. Among the injured were eight police officers, a firefighter, and an emergency responder who suffered burns. The blast was powerful enough to be heard and seen across Rome, producing a large cloud of smoke. Residents described a series of explosions and likened the impact to an earthquake. The fire also spread to a law enforcement storage facility behind the station. Firefighters are currently working to extinguish the blaze, facing challenges due to the intense heatwave affecting the city. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri confirmed that police and firefighters were on the scene for a reported gas leak before further explosions occurred. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed her solidarity with the victims and is closely monitoring the situation, assuring support for those affected.