A gas-laden truck exploded after overturning on the Via Dutra highway (BR-116) at km 273 in Barra Mansa, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on April 19, 2026.
The accident occurred around 14:54 when the driver lost control, collided with the median wall, and overturned. The liquefied petroleum gas (GLP) load then exploded, impacting 12 vehicles including a motorcycle and a car. Three people died: the truck driver, an 18-year-old female motorcycle passenger, and a 29-year-old male car occupant who later succumbed at the hospital. Eight others were injured, some in grave condition, and were rushed to local hospitals.
The highway was fully closed in both directions for safety and reopened at 18:15, causing severe traffic jams up to 25 km.
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