The explosion in Boksburg severely damaged the roof of the emergency department at Tambo Memorial Hospital there, killing and injuring dozens of people and destroying homes and cars.
Initial reports estimated 27 deaths, but that number rose to 34 late last week, according to regional health authorities. A memorial service for the dead was held last Friday.
Reports said the victims included nearly a dozen medical staff and nearly two dozen residents, and that due to the severe burns injuries, the death toll could rise. Children are believed to be among the dead.
condolatory
“The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the families of those killed in the blast as well as to the people and Government of South Africa,” the statement said.
“The Secretary-General wishes the injured a full and speedy recovery and speedy reconstruction of damaged medical infrastructure.”
According to reports, the petrol tanker crashed into the underside of a low bridge before exploding.
Many victims were taken to the hospital’s emergency department, before being evacuated because the roof collapsed.
