ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia – The death toll from a gas truck explosion in Mongolia has risen to five, with another victim succumbing to injuries in intensive care. The latest victim, who had sustained 90-95% burns, passed away at 10:30 am on January 31, in Ulaanbaatar time. According to the burn center of the Bayanzurkh district hospital, four other victims remain in serious condition following the incident.
The explosion occurred on the night of January 24 in Ulaanbaatar, resulting from a collision between a truck carrying 60 tons of liquefied gas and a car. The fire from the explosion spread to nearby residential buildings and parked cars, causing extensive damage. Additionally, three firefighters were killed on the spot from suffocation after being thrown 40 meters away by the shock wave.
Following the explosion, 14 individuals with burns and various injuries were rushed to the hospital, with four of them receiving immediate aid. Ten people were urgently taken to the burn center, six of whom were transferred directly to intensive care. The first victim to die in the burn center was a 19-year-old who had sustained 80-90% burns on the night of January 28.
The incident has sparked concerns about the safety and regulation of gas transportation in Mongolia, prompting calls for stricter protocols and oversight. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the collision and subsequent explosion, with a focus on preventing similar incidents in the future. Residents in the affected area are also receiving support and assistance as they work to recover from the destruction caused by the explosion and fire.
The community is coming together to mourn the lives lost and support those impacted by the tragic event, as efforts continue to understand the full scope of the damage and prevent such disasters from occurring again.