Lack of ventilation in the cabin allowed the accumulation of flammable gas; Debris from the vehicle was thrown 30 meters away.
The driver of a Chrysler Pacifica escaped with minor injuries after the vehicle she was in exploded in Burke, Virginia (USA). The incident, which occurred last week, was caused by the accidental ignition of propane gas accumulated inside the cabin when the driver tried to light a cigarette.
Due to near-zero temperatures that morning, the woman was driving around with her windows fully closed, which prevented the dispersion of fuel leaking from a propane cylinder transported in the cargo compartment. When she activated the lighter, the driver triggered an explosion of such magnitude that the metal roof, doors and windows of the minivan were torn off. Debris from the vehicle was projected about 30 meters away from the detonation site.
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Witnesses and residents of the region reported that the impact generated a tremor capable of knocking down paintings and decorative objects in neighboring residences. Despite the structural destruction of the minivan, the driver managed to abandon the car by her own means, with burns on her arms, but without risk of death. Chrysler Pacifica had a total loss verified by local authorities.
Propane is an extremely volatile fuel, commonly used in barbecue grills and heating systems. To avoid accidents, safety agencies recommend strict guidelines: cylinders must always be transported in an upright position and properly secured. Fundamentally, it is necessary to keep at least one window partially open to ensure constant ventilation, preventing any leaks from reaching the concentration necessary for ignition by sparks or open flames.
