Gas Truck Explosion in Mexico City Injures 57, Causes Multiple Vehicle Fires

A gas tanker truck exploded on a highway near the Iztapalapa district in southeast Mexico City, killing at least three people and injuring around 57 to 70 others, with 19 reported in critical condition. The explosion caused a massive fire that damaged or burned 18 vehicles and created significant chaos, with emergency services extinguishing the flames and conducting rescue operations. The truck, reportedly carrying 49,500 liters of gas, overturned before the explosion, and authorities are investigating the precise cause of the incident alongside compliance with hazardous materials transport regulations. Mayor Clara Brugada described the situation as an emergency and confirmed that the injured were hospitalized, while the affected roadway was reopened after being closed for several hours. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of transporting hazardous materials in urban areas and highlighted the response capabilities of Mexico City's firefighters and civil protection services. Authorities continue cooling operations to prevent rekindling and are coordinating aid and damage assessment efforts.