Two explosions at a gas station in Rome’s Prenestino district injured at least 45 people on Friday morning, causing major damage and prompting a large emergency response.

The incident began around 8 a.m. when a fuel tanker accidentally hit a pipeline during refueling, triggering a gas leak. A small explosion followed shortly after, which then led to a much larger blast, sending flames and smoke into the air and shaking nearby buildings.

Authorities confirmed that 21 emergency workers were among the injured. Five people were taken to the hospital, including two men with life-threatening injuries. A nearby sports facility and several other buildings were also badly damaged in the blasts.

Firefighters worked for hours to contain the blaze, and aerial images showed widespread destruction at the scene. The explosions shattered windows and left the surrounding area covered in debris.

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri visited the site and credited emergency crews with helping to prevent an even more serious disaster by quickly evacuating people from nearby buildings.

Pope Leo XIV offered prayers for those affected, saying he was deeply concerned about the situation and stood in solidarity with the local community.

The cause of the incident is still under investigation, and cleanup operations are ongoing as the area remains sealed off for safety.