A routine morning drive on the Iztapalapa–Chalco highway turned into a major disaster when an LPG tanker overturned and exploded, sending flames across a busy stretch of road in eastern Mexico City.
The tanker was carrying more than 13,000 gallons of liquefied petroleum gas, according to the original report. After it overturned, the vehicle erupted into a large fireball that burned through nearby traffic and left a wide area covered in smoke, debris, and damaged vehicles.
Officials reported at least 15 deaths after the blast, with more than 70 people injured. Many of the injured were treated for serious burns and smoke inhalation, placing heavy pressure on emergency rooms and burn units in the area.
A Morning Commute Turned Into a Fire Zone
Witnesses described a powerful blast that shook nearby homes and businesses. Thick black smoke rose above the highway as drivers and passengers abandoned cars and motorcycles to escape the spreading fire.