In a devastating incident in northern Santiago, a truck carrying liquefied gas overturned, leading to a massive explosion that claimed the lives of several individuals, including the truck driver. The police chief reported during a press conference that the accident caused injuries to at least 17 others. The local gas company 'Gasco,' which owned the truck, is now under scrutiny as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The explosion was so powerful that it was felt within a radius of 150 to 200 meters, damaging around 50 vehicles in the vicinity.

Videos shared on social media showcased flames rising from the explosion site, illustrating the severity of the disaster. Chilean President Gabriel Boric noted that debris from the explosion had impacted three companies' territories, but, fortunately, reports indicate no significant damage to these properties. However, local officials, including Santiago's metropolitan region governor Claudio Orrego, stated that five individuals were in critical condition, with one suffering burns across 100% of their body, highlighting the serious consequences of this accident.

As the situation develops, authorities are focused on understanding the factors leading to this tragic event. The community is coming to terms with the impact of this explosion, and the potential safety implications for the transport of hazardous materials like liquefied gas. This incident raises pressing questions about regulations and emergency preparedness in dealing with such dangerous substances in urban areas.