The explosion occurred on Monday in the town of San Cristobal, located less than 30 kilometers from the capital city of Santo Domingo. It triggered a destructive fire that damaged nine structures and completely destroyed four buildings.

Of the 59 individuals who sustained injuries in the explosion, 12 are currently receiving medical treatment in hospitals. Among them, three are in intensive care, and five are being cared for in burn units.

Search and rescue teams are still working at the incident site, and the death toll is expected to rise as more bodies are recovered.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. (ILKHA)