Rome, Italy On Friday morning, July 4, 2025, a big explosion happened at a gas station in southeastern Rome. At least 25 people got hurt. The injured include nine police officers, one firefighter, and 16 civilians. Two of them are in very bad condition. The explosion was caused by a leak of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The blast caused fear and damage across the city.
LPG Explosion Rocks Rome Suburbs
Around 8 a.m., police And firefighters came To a gas station On Via di San Cesareo after Someone reported A Gas leak. While they Were trying to help people And move Them away, A huge fireball Exploded. A second blast followed shortly after. Many People were badly hurt And The Explosion damaged Nearby buildings. Thick Black smoke rose Into the sky. Roads were closed and traffic was Blocked. Fifteen firefighting units came to stop the fire and protect the area.
Casualty Report: Who Was Injured
Italy’s Civil Protection Services said the injured were:
- 9 police officers and carabinieri
- 1 firefighter
- 16 civilians (2 are in critical condition)
All the injured were taken to Casilino Hospital. Police and firefighters were not seriously hurt. But the 2 civilians are in the intensive care unit.
Eyewitness Accounts: “A Ball of Fire Hit Us”
A woman named Barbara Belardinelli said she was walking with her daughter when the explosion happened. she said: “We heard the first blast and went outside. Then the second blast came like a fireball. My daughter’s arm is still red. It was terrible,”
Other people said it felt like an earthquake. Windows broke and buildings shook. Videos on social media showed smoke, sirens, and panic in the streets.
Swift Evacuations Prevent Greater Tragedy
A children’s sports center near the gas station was quickly evacuated before the second explosion. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri said quick action by emergency teams saved many lives. He said: “If they had waited even a few minutes, many people could have died,”
People living near the station were also moved out. Civil protection officers checked the area for anything that could cause another explosion.
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Investigation Underway: LPG Leak Suspected
Police In Rome have started an Investigation. They think the gas leak Happened while workers Were unloading LPG At the Station. They will look at video footage, Gas sensors, And other Evidence. They want to find out If it was an accident Or someone’s Fault. This might lead to New safety rules for gas stations In Italy.
National and Religious Leaders Respond
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, said she is watching the situation closely. She promised to help the victims and their families. Pope Leo XIV said he is praying for everyone who was hurt.
Are Urban LPG Systems Too Risky
Experts have warned that gas stations in busy cities are risky. When LPG is unloaded in crowded places, accidents can happen. This explosion shows that safety rules need to be stronger. Experts say we need better leak detectors and safety drills.
Emergency Response in Rome: A Breakdown
- 15 firefighting teams were sent to the area
- Casilino Hospital treated most of the injured
- Police closed off a 500-meter area around the gas station
- Drones were used to check dangerous spots
- Local schools and sports centers were closed for safety
Community Voices And Public Sentiment
People in Rome are posting messages online to thank emergency workers. Many are also worried About safety at gas Stations. Some local groups are Setting up blood drives And Support for the Injured.
Conclusion
Rome Shaken But Not Broken
The explosion at The gas station on July 4 Is a sad reminder that Accidents can happen Anywhere. Thankfully, Oo one died. But 25 people were hurt, Including many Brave first responders. Because of their quick action And the Help of local people, Many lives were Saved. Rome is now standing Together. People want changes, answers, And Support for Recovery.