Gas truck explosion claims eight lives in Mexico City
- A gas tanker truck overturned and exploded on a major highway in Mexico City, resulting in eight deaths and nearly 100 injuries.
- Most victims were passengers in buses and private vehicles; some suffered severe burns.
- Investigations are ongoing, and questions are raised about the truck’s insurance status and safety regulations.
On Wednesday, a tragic incident unfolded in Mexico City, Mexico, when a gas truck carrying over 13,000 gallons (49,500 liters) of gas overturned and exploded on a highway. The explosion occurred in the Iztapalapa neighborhood, resulting in at least eight fatalities and nearly 100 injuries. Many of the victims were passengers in public buses and private vehicles, as well as vendors and delivery drivers. Eyewitnesses reported that flames rapidly engulfed buses, and videos showed horrific scenes of individuals escaping the inferno while suffering severe burns. Local officials, including Mexico City’s Head of Government Clara Brugada, confirmed the rise in the death toll and reported that at least 67 injured individuals are currently hospitalized, with 22 in critical condition. The explosion took place after a large gas cloud was released due to the truck's overturning, creating a catastrophic environment for those in the vicinity. Among the injured were vulnerable individuals, including a child and a baby, adding to the tragedy of the situation. Responses from city officials and the federal agency responsible for regulating safety in the hydrocarbon sector have emphasized the necessity for stringent safety measures. Preliminary investigations indicated that the gas truck lacked updated insurance documentation required for transporting gas, raising serious questions about the safety regulations that companies must adhere to when operating such vehicles. This highlights ongoing concerns regarding the thousands of gas trucks that are on Mexican roads each day, which are critical for domestic cooking and heating. In response to this calamity, both the Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Mayor Clara Brugada expressed their condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident. They praised the emergency responders for their efforts during the chaotic rescue operations. The accident has reignited discussions about road safety and the regulations governing gas transport trucks in the city, illustrating the urgent need for more robust oversight to prevent future tragedies.