A major explosion shook a petrol station in Rome's Prenestino neighborhood early Friday morning, injuring at least 40 people and sending a massive fireball and thick black smoke soaring into the sky. The blast, which happened just after 8 a.m. local time, was felt throughout the Italian capital, with residents describing it as feeling "like an earthquake," and windows shattering in nearby buildings. Early reports indicate that the explosion was likely caused by a gas leak during the unloading of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), possibly triggered when a truck hit a pipeline.

Among those injured were many first responders, including police officers and firefighters, who rushed to the scene after the initial gas leak report. Authorities credit their quick actions in evacuating a nearby sports center and other buildings for preventing an even greater disaster. While most injuries were minor burns and wounds from flying debris, at least two individuals are in serious condition, underscoring the explosion's tremendous force. The incident has sparked a city-wide response, with emergency services working around the clock to manage the aftermath and assist the injured.

The immediate aftermath of the blast was devastating, with the petrol station largely destroyed and significant damage to surrounding structures. Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with metal fragments and shattered glass raining down. The enormous plume of smoke could be seen from kilometers away, highlighting the scale of the disaster. Rome's Mayor Roberto Gualtieri quickly arrived at the scene, expressing his gratitude to the emergency personnel for their swift and brave actions.

In response to the explosion, Rome prosecutors have initiated a thorough investigation to uncover the cause, focusing on the sequence of events that led to this tragic incident. They will be looking into any possible safety protocol violations during the LPG unloading process and the circumstances surrounding the pipeline. As the city grapples with the aftermath, prayers and messages of solidarity have poured in, including from Pope Leo XIV, who expressed his concern for those affected by the "tragic incident in the heart of my Diocese."