Elizalde on Gasco Truck Explosion: 4 Dead, 17 Injured in Route 5 Accident

Chilean Interior Minister Álvaro Elizalde addressed the aftermath of a Gasco truck explosion on Route 5 North near General Velásquez, which resulted in four fatalities and seventeen injuries, sixteen of whom are in critical condition with up to 50% of their bodies burned.

“To be clear, we begin by expressing our condolences to the families of those who died, as well as to those who are injured and in a rather complex health situation,” Elizalde stated. He emphasized the importance of a swift investigation into the cause of the accident and the need to verify that proper safety protocols were followed.

The minister indicated preliminary findings suggest adherence to safety protocols was lacking. “In any case, from the information we have, the appropriate protocols to prevent this accident were not followed,” he said.

Elizalde highlighted the crucial role of both technical teams and the Public Prosecutor’s Office in clarifying the circumstances surrounding the explosion and in implementing preventative measures for the future. He affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring such incidents are avoided going forward.