A devastating gas explosion at a farmhouse in northern Italy has resulted in the tragic deaths of three police officers and left more than 15 others injured. The explosion occurred during an eviction operation for two brothers and a sister who were in their late 50s to mid-60s, particularly affecting members of the Carabinieri military police.
The blast, which could be heard from 5 kilometers away, was reportedly triggered as officials entered the house in the province of Verona. Initial investigations suggest that one of the siblings may have ignited a gas cylinder, leading to the catastrophic explosion that claimed the lives of the three officers.
Two individuals—one man and one woman—were apprehended at the scene, while a third individual who fled was located shortly after the incident. All three have been hospitalized.
The farmhouse had been under an eviction order due to debts and was known to be in a derelict state with no power. Neighbors warned that the siblings had previously indicated they would resist eviction and even suggested they might harm themselves rather than leave.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi expressed deep sorrow and called for a moment of grieving. He acknowledged the long history of attempts to resolve the eviction peacefully, noting that mediators had been sent to facilitate the eviction process before the tragic event occurred.
Images displayed the remains of the building, reduced to rubble, highlighting the devastating impact of the explosion. The Prosecutor's office is treating the incident as a case of premeditated homicide.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with Defense Minister Guido Crosetto also highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of the officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
