Background on the Incident
Last week, a devastating explosion occurred when a gas tanker truck overturned and collided with containment walls in Iztapalapa, one of Mexico City’s most populous and the country’s second-most populated alcaldías. The tragedy has left a grim toll, with the death toll rising to 25 as of Friday morning, according to the capital’s Health Secretariat.
The Sequence of Events
- On Wednesday of the previous week, a fully loaded gas tanker truck, carrying approximately 50,000 liters of gas, crashed and overturned while navigating a busy road in Iztapalapa.
- The collision caused a fracture, leading to the release of gas and subsequently triggering a massive explosion and fire that engulfed around thirty vehicles.
Current Situation and Impact
As of Friday, the Health Secretariat reported that 21 individuals remain hospitalized, while 38 have been discharged. Among the injured is a two-year-old girl who was transferred to a hospital in Galveston, Texas.
Investigations and Findings
Preliminary investigations by the capital’s Fiscalía suggest that excessive speed and the driver’s lack of skill were the primary causes of the accident. The driver, who succumbed to injuries midweek, is believed to have lost control of the vehicle.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was involved in the incident? A gas tanker truck, carrying approximately 50,000 liters of gas, overturned and collided with containment walls in Iztapalapa, Mexico City.
- How many people have been affected? The tragic explosion has left 25 fatalities and injured at least 63 individuals, with some receiving treatment in hospitals outside Mexico City.
- What are the current conditions of those affected? As of Friday, 21 people remain hospitalized, and 38 have been discharged following the incident.
- What are the preliminary findings of the investigation? The capital’s Fiscalía suggests that excessive speed and the driver’s lack of skill were the main factors contributing to the accident.
