Investigators revealed on Tuesday that an operator raised the alarm moments before the explosion that killed five workers at Calenzano fuel depot, near Florence, on Monday. The incident occurred at platform 6 of the depot’s 10-platform loading area.
At precisely 10:21:30, the operator activated the alarm button. However, just seconds later, an initial explosion, believed to have been caused by a spark igniting spilled fuel, was recorded. This triggered a series of explosions involving at least five tankers, according to the investigative team.
Preliminary inspections ordered by the State Attorney’s Office in Prato have ruled out sabotage, as no traces of explosives were found at the site. The blast also left nine others injured.
Ongoing Investigation into Maintenance Work
The Prato prosecutors’ office, which has jurisdiction over Calenzano, has opened an investigation into multiple manslaughter, culpable building collapse, and the removal or omission of safety measures.
Initial findings indicate the depot, which stores petrol, diesel, and kerosene, was undergoing maintenance on long-neglected components. This work is now the focus of the investigation, as authorities seek to determine the exact cause of the explosion.
The 170,300-square-metre facility, connected to Eni’s Livorno refinery by two pipelines, has been in operation since 1956. It features 24 storage tanks and 10 loading platforms.
Searches Target Maintenance Company
As part of the investigation, Carabinieri police searched the Calenzano fuel depot and the offices of Sergen, a company based in Potenza that was conducting maintenance at the site. Two of the victims, Gerardo Pepe and Franco Cirelli, were employed by Sergen, while the other three were tanker truck drivers.
Prosecutors are also examining whether any safety regulations were violated. While no one has been officially placed under investigation, media reports highlight a search warrant linking Sergen’s maintenance work to the explosion at platform 6.
Previous Concerns Raised
La Repubblica reported that one of the victims, tanker driver Vincenzo Martinelli, had previously raised concerns about safety at the depot. In a letter to his employer, BT Transport, two months ago, Martinelli outlined “constant anomalies” at work. The letter was written in response to disciplinary action taken against him after he refused to complete a trip.
Authorities are continuing their inquiries.
