LPG Explosion Ravages Homes in São Paulo’s Jaguare Neighborhood

On May 11, 2024, a fire ignited by a suspected liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) explosion struck the Jaguare neighborhood, located roughly 16 km (10 mi) from São Paulo’s city centre. The blaze damaged approximately ten residential structures and prompted the deployment of twelve fire engines by the São Paulo state fire department.

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• May 11, 2024 (morning): Residents reported a sudden explosion and ensuing fire in Jaguare.

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• Shortly after: Firefighters arrived, mobilising twelve engines to contain the fire.

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• Following hours: Search efforts continued for additional victims and structural damage was assessed.

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The incident directly affected around ten homes, with three individuals sustaining minor injuries. Reports vary on fatalities: one account indicates a male victim was found dead beneath the rubble, while another statement asserts no deaths occurred. The fire also caused visible roof destruction and smoke across the neighbourhood.

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A fire-department spokeswoman communicated that the explosion was likely caused by an LPG blast, prompting the rapid dispatch of twelve fire engines. She confirmed that two men and a woman were rescued with minor injuries and that officials believed roughly ten buildings bore the brunt of the blast. The department’s updates on casualty figures differed, with one bulletin noting a fatal male victim and a subsequent post reporting no fatalities.

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Local witnesses described the suddenness of the event. One resident recounted being thrown from his home alongside his son and dog, while another expressed distress over the loss of a pet amidst the chaos.

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The fire department’s communications contain contradictory information regarding deaths. An early statement mentioned the discovery of a dead male victim under the debris, whereas a later post indicated that no fatalities had been recorded. The discrepancy remains unresolved in the available reports.

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The blast underscores the hazards associated with LPG in residential neighborhoods. Damage to multiple dwellings and the potential loss of life illustrate the impact such incidents can have on densely inhabited parts of São Paulo.

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Firefighters continued to search the site for additional victims after the initial containment. Authorities indicated that a full investigation into the cause of the LPG blast and the extent of structural damage would follow, though specific timelines were not provided.

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• “Several buildings were hit.” — Spokeswoman, São Paulo state fire department

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• “We don't have the exact number, but we believe that around 10 were directly hit," she said.” — Spokeswoman, São Paulo state fire department

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• “I couldn't find my dog,” — Resident, Jaguare neighborhood

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• “I was thrown out. It was me, my son, and my dog. My house exploded.” — Resident, Jaguare neighborhood

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