Massive Gas Station Explosion Injures At Least 20 In Rome

The explosion was heard across the Italian capital, sending up a huge cloud of dark smoke and fire visible from several areas of the city.

ROME (AP) — A gas station exploded early on Friday in southeastern Rome, injuring at least 20 people, including eight police officers and a firefighter, local authorities and rescuers said.

The explosion was heard across the Italian capital shortly after 8 a.m., sending up a huge cloud of dark smoke and fire visible from several areas of the city.

Rome mayor Roberto Gualtieri said around 20 people suffered slight injuries.

Gualtieri said local police and firefighters rushed to the area after they were alerted about a gas leak.

Two explosions followed after they arrived, he added.