Rome Gas Station Explosion Injures Over 20, Including Police, Firefighter

A massive explosion occurred at a petrol station in the Prenestino neighborhood of eastern Rome, injuring over 20 people, including eight police officers and a firefighter. The blast was reportedly triggered by a truck colliding with a gas pipeline during a refueling operation, causing a mechanical failure that led to a fire and subsequent tank explosions. The fire spread to a nearby judicial depot containing oxygen tanks, prompting evacuations of surrounding buildings and a children's summer camp at the Villa De Sanctis sports center. Emergency responders arrived before the explosion to address a reported gas leak, but the blast caused significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and the nearby Teano metro station, leading to road closures and rerouted bus lines. Authorities deployed ten firefighting teams and activated Rome’s mass casualty protocols, while hospitals were placed on standby to treat burns and other injuries; fortunately, no fatalities have been reported. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Pope Leo XIV expressed concern and are monitoring the situation, as investigations continue to determine the full cause and extent of the incident.