45 Injured by the explosion at a pump in Rome

A major explosion at a gas station in a eastern Roman neighbourhood on Friday injured at least 45 people, including 12 police officers and six firefighters, Italian authorities said.

The blast at the gas, oil and liquid oil gas hub in the working class district of Prenestino was heard throughout the capital shortly after 8: 00 a.m.

Italian news agencies reported that people hit by the explosion are being treated in local hospitals, with two of them in critical condition due to multiple burns and needing ventilation support, writes the report. ReutersPeriscope broadcast.

Firefighters and ambulance workers were involved in the blast after being called to the scene earlier, after a truck hit a pipeline at the gas station, Italian media said.

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtier, speaking from the site of the event, told reporters that an incident was suspected during the fuel tank's operation, triggering a gas leak, followed by a fire and explosion.

Prime Minister Giorgia Melon thanked police, firemen and other emergency services for providing assistance to ensure that “this tragic event had no more serious consequences --”. /