Rome, 22 March (LaPresse) – The collapse of the building on Via Tavagnasco in Rome, in the Piana del Sole district, was caused by an explosion of “massive” force. This was stated by the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, who visited the scene to assess the situation. Two people were injured and taken to Sant’Eugenio Hospital in a serious condition, “but we are awaiting medical reports to ascertain the exact situation,” Mr Gualtieri told journalists. “We are currently determining how many people will need housing assistance,” he added. “The building where the explosion occurred has been completely destroyed, and all those surrounding it have sustained damage of varying degrees. The fire brigade will assess which ones will be habitable and which will not; it seems that not all will be declared uninhabitable. We will see how many people will need to be rehoused; we already know that some will go to stay with relatives. We are waiting for the exact number so that we can then organise housing assistance. I would like to thank all those involved: the fire brigade, the local police, the civil protection services, the medical staff, and the mayor; they are all here to help those in need. “We will not leave them alone,” assured Mr Gultieri, confirming that the cause of the explosion was believed to be a gas leak in a flat in the building, which subsequently collapsed. “These are new buildings, in good condition, which did not appear to have any problems,” he added.
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