A powerful explosion, likely caused by a gas valve malfunction, has obliterated much of a home located near the bustling Toyo Corner, at the intersection of Diez de Octubre and Luyanó avenues in Havana's Diez de Octubre municipality.
The incident unfolded around midday on Tuesday, with images of the aftermath circulating on Facebook, specifically on the page NiO Reporting a Crime, which shared exclusive footage of the destruction.
Preliminary reports indicate a family lost nearly all their possessions due to the explosion. The blast wave also inflicted damage on nearby buildings, impacting the residents.
"Allegedly two dead and several injured from a gas explosion. Unconfirmed. No further details or victim identification yet," wrote Yois Ramos on Facebook.
Cuban activist Yamilka Lafita, also known as Lara Crofs, reported on the disaster as well. "A gas explosion might have resulted in two fatalities and several injuries near Toyo Corner, in Diez de Octubre municipality in the capital," she stated.
NiO Reporting a Crime has not confirmed any fatalities and is still investigating whether there are injured individuals. As of this publication, Cuban authorities have not issued any official statement regarding the incident.
Videos shared show thick smoke, dust, and people hastily evacuating the area. In one recording, alarmed shouts can be heard: "Run! Hey! This is going to collapse! This is going to collapse! Run over there!"
The affected building is situated at one of the most iconic intersections in southeastern Havana, named after the Toyo family's bakery and tavern established there since 1832.
This event occurs amid a series of recent mishaps and incidents associated with Havana's gas network. Late in September, a fire during gas repair work on Tulipán and Oeste in Plaza de la Revolución injured several workers.
Days later, a major gas pipeline failure disrupted service across seven Havana municipalities, including Diez de Octubre.
On the same day of the explosion, Havana authorities announced ongoing gas network rehabilitation efforts in Cerro and Centro Habana due to multiple leaks detected in those areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Havana Explosion
What caused the explosion near Toyo Corner in Havana?
The explosion is believed to have been caused by a malfunctioning gas valve.
Were there any fatalities in the explosion?
Reports suggest there may have been two fatalities; however, this has not been officially confirmed by authorities.
Has the government provided any official statements?
As of now, Cuban authorities have not released any official statements concerning the explosion.