2 dead in Abu Dhabi restaurant blast caused by gas leak

Abu Dhabi - A number of people were also taken to a hospital after sustaining minor and moderate injuries, according to the police.

Two people were killed in a gas explosion that ripped through a fast food restaurant in Abu Dhabi on Monday morning, authorities said.

One of the victims was near the explosion site on Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road), while the other was a passerby who was hit by the debris, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a statement.

A number of people were also taken to a hospital after sustaining minor and moderate injuries, according to the police.

Investigations show that the blast was caused by "a misalignment in the gas container fittings, following refuelling".

Two fast food restaurants and other shops on the ground floor of the building were badly damaged, based on the photos shared by the authorities. Windows on the first floor were shattered, and a number of vehicles parked outside were also hit.

Residents of the building were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported among them, the Abu Dhabi Police said. Temporary accommodation has also been arranged for the tenants.

Police had cordoned off the area and teams were at the site to handle the situation. "We urge people to avoid spreading rumours and use only official news sources," authorities said.

Residents shocked

Speaking to Khaleej Times, residents in the area were shocked by the explosion that jolted their neighbourhood and sent flying debris across the road.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com