Gas Tank Explosion in Turkey Injures 19

An LPG-laden vehicle exploded early on Tuesday on highway in western Turkey, injuring 19 people, eight of them seriously.

The explosion took place just after midnight in the province of Kutahya, an official said. Witnesses said they heard two powerful explosions and saw flames engulfed several vehicles, including a firefighting vehicle and a bus.

Firefighters were called to the scene after an emergency call about gas leakage and an explosion took place just as they were examining the gas-laden tanker, mayor Mustafa Ica told reporters.

A total of 12 vehicles, including a firefighting vehicle, were damaged in the ensuing fire.

Windows of nearby buildings were shattered with the impact of the explosion.