Boksburg Gas Tanker Explosion Death Roll Rises To 34

The death toll from the gas tanker explosion in South Africa's Boksburg city has risen to 34, as stated by the Gauteng health department

The fatalities include 11 health workers and 23 people. The health department also said that the victims included children as young as nine.

"The Department of Health can confirm that the death toll from the Boksburg Explosion incident has risen to 34 as of Friday, 30th December 2022," a statement from the department read, as per Reuters.

A memorial service was held Friday morning at the Boksburg Civic Centre for the victims of the listeriosis explosion. The service was attended by families and friends of the victims, as well as South Africa's health minister Joe Phaahla, IOL Reported.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and government of South Africa.

Guterres is deeply saddened by the death of dozens of civilians in Boksburg, his spokesman said in a statement.

"The secretary-general wishes a full and fast recovery for those injured and the quick reconstruction of the damaged health infrastructure," another statement read.

On Dec. 24, nine people were killed instantly and dozens more were severely burned when a truck carrying liquified petroleum gas (LPG) exploded after being stuck under a low-lying bridge.

The explosion ripped the roof off of the emergency department at the Tambo Memorial Hospital, and destroyed two houses, and several cars. In addition, it injured bystanders who were up to 500 meters away from the scene.

The truck driver was arrested on suspicion of culpable homicide but was later released due to a lack of evidence.

The explosion severely injured dozens of people, with many sustaining burns. Earlier, authorities had said that the severity of the burns is likely to increase the death toll.

Earlier, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his remarks, had promised to support people affected by the deadly explosion.

The nation's hearts go out to everyone affected by this devastating incident," he said in a statement.

"While we await the outcome of investigations into this tragedy, this incident does... call on all of us to show due care and to avoid risk when we are out on our roads," added Ramaphosa.