Fire, Explosion Strike Ammunition Factory Near Rome, No Casualties Reported
A powerful explosion rocked an ammunition manufacturing plant in Colleferro, about 40 kilometres southeast of Rome, on Thursday after a fire broke out at the facility. Despite the intensity of the blast, no injuries or fatalities were reported, officials said.
The plant is operated by KNDS Ammo Italy, formerly known as Simmel Difesa, and manufactures ammunition and other defence-related products. The explosion reportedly originated in the facility’s powder-pressing department, according to officials.
Local authorities said 24 workers inside the facility were accounted for and safe following the incident. Employees reportedly moved to designated secure areas as emergency crews responded to the fire.
The blast sent a towering plume of smoke into the sky and was heard across Colleferro and surrounding areas. Some residents said the force of the explosion shook buildings, with one resident describing the sound as similar to an earthquake.
Police and 10 firefighting crews, supported by a helicopter, were deployed to tackle the blaze. The fire also spread to nearby vegetation, adding to the challenges faced by emergency responders. Authorities focused on securing the site and protecting residents while firefighting operations continued.
Colleferro Mayor Giulio Calamita described the incident as a “huge scare” but confirmed that no injuries had been reported. Lazio regional president Francesco Rocca said ensuring public safety and allowing emergency personnel to operate safely remained the priority.
The cause of the fire and subsequent explosion remains under investigation. Authorities are assessing the facility and the extent of the damage while investigators work to determine what triggered the blast.
The absence of casualties has been particularly significant given the scale of the explosion, which generated a large mushroom-shaped cloud visible from a considerable distance. Further details are expected as authorities complete their assessment.