A catastrophic gas tanker explosion rocked Mexico City on Wednesday, leaving a trail of devastation and claiming the lives of three people. The incident, which occurred beneath a highway overpass, injured at least 70 others, with some suffering severe burns covering their entire bodies. The tanker, carrying over 13,000 gallons of gasoline, reportedly tipped over before exploding, engulfing nearby vehicles in flames. Dramatic images and videos circulated online, showcasing the intense fire and panicked escape of onlookers. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to extinguish the blaze and provide medical assistance to the injured, many of whom suffered extensive burns, with some sustaining injuries described as up to 100% burns. Among the injured were a baby and a two-year-old child. Nineteen individuals remain in critical condition, including the tanker driver. Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada declared the incident an emergency, noting that approximately 30 vehicles were destroyed. Prosecutors are investigating the cause of the accident, focusing on the circumstances surrounding the tanker's rollover. Although the tanker initially displayed the logo of the energy company Silza, the company denies ownership. However, the Mexican environmental ministry later revealed Silza lacked the necessary updated insurance to legally transport gasoline due to a rejected application. President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences to the victims' families and commended the emergency services personnel for their swift response. The major highway, a vital artery leading out of the capital towards Puebla, was closed for a time but reopened later that evening. The incident highlights significant safety concerns regarding the transportation of hazardous materials in Mexico City.
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Originally published at: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/gas-tanker-truck-explodes-highway-overpass-mexico-city-125459220
