Fatal Gas Explosion at Kurunegala Fuel Station Claims Four Lives

Kurunegala, April 8 — A devastating gas explosion at a fuel station in the Wehera area of Kurunegala late last night has resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including the station manager, and left four others injured, police confirmed.

The tragedy unfolded around 11:00 PM on April 7, when a lorry arrived to refill liquefied petroleum (LP) gas at the station. During the process, one of two large storage tanks—each with a capacity of approximately 6,000 litres—unexpectedly exploded, igniting a massive fire that rapidly spread through the facility.

The explosion proved fatal for the station manager and three others who were at the scene. The injured victims were immediately transported to the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital for medical attention.

Firefighters from the Kurunegala Municipal Council responded promptly and successfully brought the blaze under control, preventing it from spreading further.

Thanks to the quick efforts of municipal workers, the second 6,000-litre gas tank—which remained intact—was safely sealed off, averting an even greater catastrophe.

The Kurunegala Police have initiated a full-scale investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and to hold any responsible parties accountable.