Explosion kills 100 in Goma
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.An explosion at a gas station in Goma has killed up to 100 people who were trying to siphon fuel.
Internal links
An explosion at a gas station in Goma has killed up to 100 people who were trying to siphon fuel.
Monday morning's explosion in the Congolese city is believed to have been caused by lava from the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo, which has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee the city.
The people were trying to steal gas and diesel fuel when the tanks ignited and sent flames shooting 100ft into the air. Hours later the building was still ablaze and rescuers were unable to reach the site.
The station is located near one of the main lava flows, but the lava has cooled enough for people to walk across it. They were using plastic containers to collect the fuel and carry it back.
Many residents of Goma fled to neighboring Rwanda after Thursday's eruption which has destroyed nearly half of the city. Just one–third of the the 500,000 residents remained.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments