ITALY – Three Dead After Explosion at Waste Plant Near Naples

An explosion at a waste management facility in southern Italy has left three people dead and two others injured. The incident occurred on September 19 at the Ecopartenope plant in Caserta, about 36 kilometers (22 miles) north of Naples.

Firefighters from the Vigili del Fuoco were called to the site around 3 p.m. local time after reports of a blast in a silo. Crews quickly brought the resulting fire under control and later recovered three bodies from the affected area.

Local reports indicate that the explosion happened while maintenance work was being carried out. Initial inspections suggest that the blast originated near a tank containing waste oil. The victims are believed to have been thrown several meters by the shockwave, and among them was the company’s owner. Two other workers sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and to assess any potential safety failures at the facility.

Ecopartenope, founded roughly 40 years ago, specializes in the collection, transportation, and storage of hazardous and non-hazardous waste for recycling. The company serves a range of clients, including small, medium, and large businesses, according to its website.

Photo credit: Vigili del Fuoco. All rights reserved.