A pair of powerful explosions ripped through a petrol, diesel and liquefied-petroleum-gas station on Via dei Gordiani in Rome’s Prenestino-Centocelle district shortly after 8 a.m. on Friday, sending a fireball and thick smoke high above the Italian capital and shattering windows across several neighbourhoods. Italian health authorities said at least 45 people were injured, among them up to 12 police officers and six firefighters who had been called to the site after an initial report of a gas leak. Two victims suffered severe burns and were placed on life-support, while most others were treated for burns, cuts from flying glass and smoke inhalation. No deaths were reported by late Friday. Preliminary findings by the Vigili del Fuoco indicate that a tanker truck delivering liquefied petroleum gas hit or tore a pipeline, causing a leak that ignited and produced two successive blasts—the larger second explosion occurring as emergency crews were securing the area. Rome prosecutors have opened an investigation for suspected negligence and are analysing security-camera footage and witness statements. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri said nearby homes, a sports centre and a depot containing oxygen cylinders were evacuated, and the Teano metro station was closed as a precaution. The incident, which was felt as far away as the Vatican, left the service station and several vehicles gutted and prompted authorities to test air quality for possible toxin releases.