Bocholt, Belgium – A gas cylinder explosion inside a vehicle on Kaulillerweg in Bocholt, Limburg Province, left a man injured on Wednesday evening.
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. when the driver, who had just refilled a camping-gas cylinder at a petrol station, ignited a cigarette inside his vehicle, triggering a powerful blast.
According to local authorities, the explosion was caused by a buildup of gas inside the car. The force of the blast was significant enough to blow part of the vehicle’s roof off.
Witnesses in the area reported hearing a loud bang, followed by smoke billowing from the vehicle. Passersby rushed to the scene to check on the driver, who was found conscious but visibly shaken.
Emergency services, including paramedics and the Bree fire brigade, arrived promptly. Medical personnel provided the driver with initial care at the scene before transporting him to the hospital for further treatment.
Fortunately, despite the severity of the explosion, his injuries were reported to be relatively minor. Authorities have not disclosed his identity.
The fire brigade ensured that there were no secondary hazards, such as residual gas leaks, which could pose further risks to bystanders. Firefighters also examined the wreckage and assisted in securing the area.
The police from the Carma zone, which covers the municipalities of Genk, As, Oudsbergen, Houthalen-Helchteren, Bree, Bocholt, and Kinrooi, launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the explosion was accidental, resulting from a failure to properly ventilate the vehicle after filling the gas cylinder.
The ignition of the cigarette provided the necessary spark to trigger the blast. Authorities have reiterated the importance of handling flammable gases with caution, especially in enclosed spaces.
Safety experts warn that gas cylinders should always be transported in well-ventilated conditions to prevent the accumulation of combustible fumes. Additionally, lighting cigarettes or exposing open flames near gas containers can be extremely dangerous.
Residents and motorists in the area expressed their shock over the incident, with many highlighting the need for greater awareness regarding the dangers of gas storage and transportation.
“It’s scary to think that something like this can happen so easily,” said one witness. “People need to be more careful when dealing with gas cylinders.”
While the driver is expected to recover, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with improper gas handling.
The police have not announced any further legal action against the driver but continue to review the circumstances leading up to the explosion.
This event has sparked renewed discussions on safety measures at petrol stations and among campers who frequently use portable gas cylinders.
Authorities urge individuals to follow manufacturer guidelines when transporting and storing gas cylinders to avoid similar accidents in the future.
The investigation remains ongoing, with officials working to establish whether additional factors contributed to the explosion.
In the meantime, local emergency responders have emphasized the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety regulations to prevent such incidents from occurring again.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
