Explosion in Rome Causes Injuries and Evacuations

On Sunday, March 22, a powerful explosion occurred in the Piana del Sole area of Rome, resulting in significant damage to residential buildings and injuries to multiple individuals. The blast, which took place around 1 p.m. local time, is believed to have been caused by the detonation of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders buried in a property’s rear garden. The explosion affected five apartment buildings, leading to the evacuation of approximately 70 residents.

The Independent

Three individuals were reported injured, including an elderly couple, Michele De Bari, 84, and Chiara De Bari, 86, who sustained critical burns and were transported to Sant’Eugenio Hospital. A 24-year-old man was also rescued from the rubble. Witnesses described the explosion as a "deafening bang," with debris scattered up to 300 meters away, damaging nearby vehicles and properties. The force of the explosion caused two buildings to collapse entirely, with ongoing search and rescue operations indicating that additional individuals may still be trapped under the debris.

The Independent

Emergency services, including firefighters and local police, responded promptly to the scene. Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, expressed his concern for the injured and commended the efforts of emergency personnel. He stated, “I want to extend my thoughts to the injured, wishing them a speedy recovery... We won’t leave them alone.” The mayor also noted that the affected buildings were relatively new, having been constructed about seven years ago.

People Magazine

LPG explosions can occur due to various factors, including intense heat and faulty pressure release valves. Such incidents are not uncommon; for instance, a similar explosion in Chile resulted in four fatalities last month, and a tragic event in India in 2012 claimed the lives of 20 people.

The IndependentPowerful explosion in Rome, collapses building and three apartments. Two people injured and dozens evacuated, under the rubble…People Magazine

In addition to his remarks on the incident, Mayor Gualtieri shared a video on social media, assuring the community that support would be provided to the affected families. Local authorities are coordinating with the Civil Protection Department to arrange temporary housing for those evacuated from their homes.

People Magazine

While initial reports indicate that three people were injured, there are ongoing concerns regarding the possibility of others being trapped under the rubble. Investigations into the exact cause of the explosion are still underway, with firefighters tasked with determining the specifics of the LPG cylinder detonation.

Powerful explosion in Rome, collapses building and three apartments. Two people injured and dozens evacuated, under the rubble…

• “We heard a deafening bang coming from the house across from ours: debris struck everything – the large window, my son’s car, the gate – everything was destroyed.” — Local Resident

The Independent

• “I want to extend my thoughts to the injured, wishing them a speedy recovery, and I want to thank the firefighters, local police, Civil Protection, and healthcare workers, as well as the City Council and the president, who are all here to offer support and assistance to those in need. We won’t leave them alone.” — Roberto Gualtieri, Mayor of Rome

The Independent

• “These are fairly new buildings, about seven years old, and in good condition,” — Roberto Gualtieri, Mayor of Rome

People Magazine