Liberia’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Francis Kateh has confirmed that more than 40 persons are reported dead following the explosion of a gas tanker in Totota, Lower Bong County.
According to Dr. Kateh, 83 patients were reported at the Phebe Referral Hospital on Tuesday night of which 3 were confirmed dead.
He said the death toll might increase following the completion of the ongoing door-to-door contact tracing.
Some victims who sustained major injuries are also being transferred to different Hospitals in Monrovia including, John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital, 14-Military Hospital, Catholic Hospital, ELWA Hospital among others.
According to preliminary reports from Liberia authorities, the explosion took place as an over tuned tanker carrying gasoline to the commercial city Ganta when local residents be steal leakages from the tanker.
Emergency response teams, including firefighters and medical personnel, rushed to the scene to control the blaze and provide immediate assistance to the victims.
Eyewitnesses recount a scene of chaos and panic as the explosion sent shockwaves through the area, causing extensive damage to nearby structures and residents The blast’s impact has also resulted in a number of injuries, with several individuals being rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities are currently conducting an investigation to determine the root cause of the explosion and to assess the extent of the damage. The affected area has been cordoned off to ensure the safety of residents and to facilitate the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
At 30 popele of the 40 deads have been lay to rest in mass grave in Bong County where the incident occured.
Local community leaders, government officials, and humanitarian organizations are mobilizing to provide support to the affected families, offering condolences and assistance while burying their love ones. The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief and solidarity as lawmakers from Bong and other areas are asserting efforts to save the lives of those in cretical condition at various healthcare facilities.
As the investigation unfolds, residents are grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event, and questions regarding safety protocols and regulations surrounding the transport of hazardous materials are likely to be raised. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures to prevent such devastating accidents in the future.
Condolences have been going out to the families and friends of those affected by this heartbreaking incident. The community now faces the difficult task of coming to terms with the loss of lives and working together towards recovery.
