Massive Explosion At Fuel Station In Rome Leaves Nearly 30 Wounded

A violent explosion at a fuel station in Rome has left at least 29 individuals injured, following a series of blasts that caused major destruction in the city’s Prenestino district.

According to early reports, first responders were already present on Friday morning when a fuel tanker reportedly struck a pipeline during a maneuver. This caused gas to escape, leading to an initial minor explosion around 08:00 local time (07:00 BST).

Shortly after, a second, far more powerful detonation erupted, igniting a fire and sending flames and debris through the area. At least nine police officers were among those hurt, as confirmed by the city’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri.

Videos taken during the incident captured the moment a towering blaze erupted, with thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky. The force of the explosion was so intense it was heard across large parts of the city and caused buildings and windows to shake.

Upon arriving at the affected location, Gualtieri described the destruction as “terrible” and confirmed that the explosion resulted in “enormous damage” — including multiple injuries from burns and one victim in critical condition.

One of those hurt had to be pulled from a vehicle engulfed in flames by rescue teams who arrived on-site.

Visual evidence from the aftermath revealed scorched buildings and completely burned-out vehicles littering the scene.

Emergency crews continue to manage the situation, stabilizing the area and preventing further risk.

The mayor explained that soon after the first explosion, surrounding structures including a local sports complex were evacuated promptly by emergency personnel. He noted this swift action prevented what he called a “much more serious tragedy”.

One person who witnessed the event, Massimo Bartoletti, shared his account: “I saw the first explosion with the classic fireball. Shortly after came the second one which was hellish.”

He added, “A fiery mushroom formed in the sky. It made the whole area shake. It looked like hell, everything was flying in the sky.”

Balzani Fabio, who manages the now-destroyed sports facility nearby, said the first signs of the fire appeared just before 07:30 local time (06:30 BST).
“If it had happened at 08:30 or later it would have been a massacre, a catastrophe,” he stated.

He noted that around 60 children were scheduled to arrive for a summer camp that morning, with over a hundred others expected to use the swimming pool facility.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is reportedly receiving constant updates on the situation.

In a message posted on X, she stated: “I express my closeness to all those who are injured including law enforcement officers, firefighters and health workers and I extend my heartfelt thanks to those involved in the rescue and safety operations”.