By Benjami Cuaresma
MANILA — Two women were injured after a powerful explosion believed to have been caused by a leaking LPG hose ripped through a house in Sta. Cruz, Manila, on Sunday morning.
The victims were identified as Raquel Bayate, 57, and Evangelina Fernandez, 74.
According to a report from the Manila Police District – Sta. Cruz Police Station 3, the incident happened around 10:05 a.m. at House No. 2061-A Pista Street, Barangay 352, Sta. Cruz, Manila.
Investigation showed that Bayate was about to cook when she turned on the gas stove. Moments after activating the electric ignition, an explosion occurred inside the residence.
Authorities later discovered that the hose connected to the LPG tank and stove leaked, causing gas fumes to build up inside the house before igniting.
Fernandez, who was seated outside the house at the time, was also hit by flames from the blast and suffered minor burn injuries on both arms.
Residents immediately sought help as police officers and fire investigators rushed to the scene.
The victims were later brought to the nearest hospital for medical treatment while authorities continue investigating the incident.
ia/xf
