Gas station tragedy in Kattakurgan: Third victim dies from injuries

The number of fatalities from the gas station explosion in the Kattakurgan district of the Samarkand region has risen to three. The incident, which initially claimed two lives and left one person hospitalized, has now resulted in a third death.

According to the report by Zamon, the individual who was receiving treatment in a medical facility succumbed to injuries on May 9.

The deceased have been identified as the head of the gas station, the station operator, and the driver of the ZIL truck involved in the incident.

Following the explosion, the Samarkand regional Department of Internal Affairs confirmed that a criminal case has been initiated under Part 2 of Article 259 of the Criminal Code — violation of fire safety rules. A preliminary investigation is currently ongoing to determine the exact causes and potential negligence.

This tragic event follows a similar explosion on December 17, 2024, in the Fergana region, which claimed four lives and left several others injured. On that day, around 14:00, a fire broke out at a gas station, resulting in 13 people being brought to the Fergana branch of the Republican Scientific Center for Emergency Medical Assistance.

One individual was pronounced dead on arrival, while others suffered severe thermal burns. Among them were two children with 2-3 AB-degree burns over 90% of their bodies, including critical damage to the upper respiratory tract. Despite intensive care, they later died due to the extent of their injuries and burn shock.

In addition, three adults were admitted to the neurosurgical intensive care unit, diagnosed with 70–90% II-III degree burns caused by the fire.

The two deadly explosions within just months of each other have raised growing concerns about fire safety compliance at gas stations across Uzbekistan.