ROME (AP) – An early morning gas station explosion occurred in southeastern Rome on Friday, injuring at least 20 individuals, including eight police officers and a firefighter, according to local authorities and rescue teams. The explosion was reported shortly after 8 a.m., generating a significant cloud of dark smoke and flames that were visible across multiple areas of the Italian capital.

Rome's Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, stated that around 20 people sustained minor injuries from the incident. He revealed that local police and firefighters responded swiftly to reports of a gas leak, but two additional explosions erupted shortly after their arrival.

Elisabetta Accardo, a spokesperson for the Roman police, reported that eight police officers were affected while conducting rescue operations at the scene. Accardo noted, “There were a few chain explosions after the first one. All the policemen injured suffered burns, but they are not in danger of life.” Fire department spokesperson Luca Cari confirmed that one firefighter was also injured, though the injuries were not serious. Ten response teams were on-site to manage the situation.

In response to the incident, police conducted searches throughout the surrounding area to locate anyone injured or trapped within nearby buildings. Rome prosecutors have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion, highlighting the seriousness of the incident.

Local reports indicate that a sports center situated close to the gas station was promptly evacuated after the initial explosion, with several children being safely relocated. Witnesses described the explosion as exceedingly loud and violent, likening the impact on nearby buildings to that of an earthquake.

Pope Leo XIV expressed his concern for those affected, emphasizing that the explosion occurred within the heart of his diocese. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commented on the developments, stating that she was closely monitoring the situation as it unfolded.

This incident underscores the urgent need for safety protocols around gas stations, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The ramifications of such a catastrophic event not only last on the physical infrastructure but also have emotional and psychological effects on the community. Authorities are expected to conduct thorough investigations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.