A gas tanker overturned and exploded beneath a highway overpass in Mexico City on Wednesday, leaving three people dead and around 70 others injured.
The crash occurred along a major highway near the Iztapalapa borough, close to the border with Chalco in Mexico State.
The tanker was carrying over 13,000 gallons (about 49,500 liters) of gas. Flames spread to approximately 30 nearby vehicles, some of which were destroyed in the blaze.
Of those injured, 19 are in critical condition, including a baby and a two-year-old child. Some victims suffered severe burns—reports say a few had burns covering nearly all of their bodies.
The truck bore the logo of the company Silza, though company officials denied ownership. Regulators found that the vehicle lacked valid updated insurance documents required for gas transport; its application for the required insurance had been rejected.
Emergency crews and local residents helped rescue those trapped in the flames. Firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze using hoses and foam, and by evening authorities declared the fire under control.
The affected highway — an important route toward Puebla — was reopened later that night.
Investigators are probing the cause of the crash, including whether the tanker tipped over before exploding. Officials say they will update reports as more medical assessments come in.