At least 22 dead as fuel truck crashes in Saudi Arabia

on 01/11/2012 11:28:40

A fuel truck has exploded after hitting part of a bridge in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, engulfing buildings and cars in flames and killing at least 22 people.

More than 110 people were injured, reports say.

The explosion happened at 7 am near the Saudi National Guard building in an industrial area in the city's eastern district. Columns of smoke could be seen rising from scene.

There was no immediate suspicion of terrorist links based on witness accounts, which suggested the fuel tanker exploded after striking part of a highway underpass.

Officials said rescue crews had not finished the search and the death toll was still not final.

The explosion occurred after the tanker spilled fuel, which expanded the area of the fireball.