In a devastating incident in the Kenyan capital, at least two people lost their lives, and over 200 others sustained injuries due to a massive fire triggered by a gas explosion, according to government spokesman Isaac Maigua Mwaura.

The tragic event unfolded on Thursday night in the Embakasi neighborhood, southeast of Nairobi, when a truck carrying gas exploded, creating a “huge ball of fire that spread widely,” as described by Mwaura on the social media platform X.

The aftermath of the explosion left a trail of destruction, affecting not only several vehicles but also commercial properties, including numerous small and medium-sized businesses. Residential houses in the vicinity also caught fire, trapping a significant number of residents as the incident occurred late at night.

Mwaura shared the grim details, stating, “Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium-sized businesses. Residential houses in the neighborhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night.”

The casualties were significant, with at least two people succumbing to their injuries, and an additional 222 rushed to various hospitals in the capital. Earlier reports from the Kenya Red Cross indicated nearly 300 injuries.

Witnesses recounted the harrowing experience, with James Ngoge, a resident in the vicinity, describing the situation, “We were in the house and heard a huge explosion. The whole building was shaken by a huge tremor, it felt like it was going to collapse. At first, we didn’t even know what was happening, it was like an earthquake. I have a business on the road that was completely destroyed.”

The affected area, cordoned off by the police, became a scene of chaos and sorrow. Despite the security measures, some individuals were seen collecting their belongings and assessing the extensive damage.

Mwaura reassured the public that efforts were underway to manage the crisis, stating, “The scene has now been secured, and a command center is now in place to help coordinate rescue operations and other intervention efforts.”

As the affected community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, the nation mourns the lives lost and stands in solidarity with those affected by the explosion.