Truck carrying liquid gas explodes in Santiago, four killed and 17 injured

A powerful explosion rocked Santiago after a truck transporting liquid gas overturned and burst into flames, killing at least four people and injuring 17 others. The incident occurred in the northern commune of Renca, close to a major highway and an industrial zone, triggering panic in the surrounding area.

Police said the truck driver lost control of the vehicle before it crashed and exploded. The driver was among those who lost their lives in the blast. Emergency services rushed to the scene as towering flames and thick smoke engulfed the area, with videos of the explosion quickly circulating on social media. Firefighters said the blast was felt within a radius of nearly 150 to 200 metres and damaged at least 50 vehicles. Several nearby businesses were also affected after debris from the explosion was thrown across the area. The truck was linked to local gas supplier Gasco, authorities confirmed.

Chile’s President Gabriel Boric said debris struck three commercial establishments, though no wider structural damage has been reported so far. Regional officials said five of the injured are in serious condition, including one person who has suffered burns over nearly 100 percent of their body. The prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.