A gas station explosion in southeastern Rome early Friday morning left at least 20 people injured, including eight police officers and a firefighter, according to local authorities and emergency responders. The blast occurred shortly after 8 a.m. and sent a large plume of black smoke over the Italian capital.
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri confirmed that the explosion was triggered after emergency crews responded to reports of a gas leak. Two successive explosions followed shortly after police and firefighters arrived on the scene. Gualtieri noted that while the injuries were mostly minor, they included several first responders.
Elisabetta Accardo, a spokesperson for the Roman police, stated that the injured officers were caught in a series of chain explosions during rescue operations. “All the policemen injured suffered burns, but they are not in danger of life,” Accardo told state broadcaster RAI.
The fire department dispatched ten teams to manage the incident. Spokesman Luca Cari confirmed that one firefighter was hurt but did not suffer serious injuries. Authorities continue to search surrounding buildings for any additional victims who may be injured or trapped.
In response to the blast, police swiftly evacuated a nearby sports center, safely removing several children who were inside at the time of the explosion.
Local residents described the blast as violent and loud, with some saying it felt like an earthquake. Buildings in the area reportedly shook from the impact.
Rome prosecutors have opened an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated she is closely monitoring the situation. Pope Leo XIV offered prayers for those affected, calling it a tragedy “in the heart of my Diocese.”
