SANTIAGO – At least four people were killed and 17 others injured after a truck carrying liquid gas overturned and exploded in Santiago, Chile, authorities confirmed on Thursday. The driver of the truck, who reportedly lost control, was among those who died in the incident.
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The explosion occurred in the northern Santiago commune of Renca, near a major highway and an industrial area. Firefighters said the blast was powerful enough to be felt within a 150 to 200-meter radius, causing damage to at least 50 vehicles. Videos circulating on social media showed flames rising from the site of the accident, highlighting the severity of the incident.
killing four personnel and critically injuring more than 20 others. These allegations are entirely false and fabricated. The video has been deliberately edited, with key portions removed to distort its context. The original footage dates back to May 2022 (2/5) pic.twitter.com/sMR328rpfS
— D-Intent Data (@dintentdata) February 20, 2026
Claudio Orrego, governor of the Santiago metropolitan region, reported that five of the injured are in serious condition, including one person with burns covering 100% of their body, described as being at imminent risk of death. Debris from the explosion reportedly struck three nearby businesses, though authorities said there were no immediate reports of wider structural damage.
The truck was affiliated with Gasco, a local gas company, although the firm had not provided an official comment at the time. Chilean prosecutors have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine what led to the truck overturning.
Police and emergency services responded quickly to the scene, assisting victims and securing the area. Authorities urged caution for residents and motorists in nearby locations, warning about the potential hazards from remaining gas leaks or structural instability caused by the blast.
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President Gabriel Boric expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to prevent future accidents. The tragedy underscores ongoing safety challenges in transporting hazardous materials through densely populated and industrial areas in Santiago.