A busy morning route on the Iztapalapa-Chalco highway turned catastrophic when a liquefied petroleum gas tanker overturned and exploded, sending flames across traffic and leaving Mexico City facing one of its most severe road disasters in recent memory.
The tanker was reportedly carrying more than 13,000 gallons of LPG when it crashed during the weekday commute. Moments later, the vehicle erupted into a massive fireball, engulfing nearby cars and motorcycles and sending thick black smoke into the sky.
Officials said at least 15 people were killed, with more than 70 others injured. Many of the injured were treated for serious burns and smoke inhalation, placing heavy pressure on hospitals and burn units in the eastern part of the city.
A Morning Commute Became a Disaster Zone
Witnesses described a blast powerful enough to shake windows and rattle nearby homes. Drivers caught in traffic had only seconds to react as the fire spread across the roadway.