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Gas Tanker Overturns and Explodes at Busy Santiago Intersection, Killing Four

Investigators point to a suspected valve leak that formed a gas cloud that ignited.

Overview

  • Authorities confirm four adult fatalities, mostly motorists caught in traffic at the site.
  • At least 17 people were injured, including ten in serious condition, with several others arriving at hospitals on their own.
  • The blast followed a rollover at Route 5 and General Velásquez in Renca, where flames engulfed at least seven vehicles and damaged nearby facilities within an estimated 150–200 meters.
  • Regional officials say the leading hypothesis is a failure in a truck valve that released gas, which detonated after a spark.
  • Emergency crews and forensic teams remain on scene, casualty and damage counts are provisional, and the event has renewed scrutiny of hazardous-fuel transport on urban highways.