Over 40 feared dead in Liberia tanker crash
A tragic accident involving a gasoline tanker in Liberia claimed the lives of more than 40 people, according to the country’s chief medical officer. The tanker crashed and fell into a ditch on a road in Totota, about 130 km (80 miles) from Monrovia, and exploded on Wednesday.
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Dr Francis Kateh said on Super Bongese TV that the exact number of casualties was hard to establish because some bodies were burned beyond recognition. He said his team was visiting homes to find out who was missing.
The police initially reported 15 deaths and 30 injuries, but the numbers could rise as they continued to investigate. Deputy inspector general Prince B. Mulbah said many people suffered burns as they rushed to the scene.
Another officer, Malvin Sackor, said some locals tried to collect the spilled gas when the tanker blew up, resulting in more deaths and injuries.
Aaron Massaquoi, a witness from Totota, said he saw people climbing on the truck and hitting it with metal objects to get more gas. He said the driver warned them not to do that, but some ignored him and even used screwdrivers to make holes on the tank.