LIRA CITY — Two mechanics were killed and three other people injured after a gas cylinder exploded at a garage in Ireda Central Park Cell, Lira City, on Saturday evening, October 10, 2026.
The explosion occurred at approximately 6:00pm as the mechanics were reportedly repairing a motorcycle using a gas cylinder, according to preliminary police findings.
The deceased have been identified as Okabo James and another man identified only as Daniel. Both were adult males working as mechanics.
Police said the cylinder suddenly exploded, killing the two men instantly and injuring three people who were nearby. The identities of the injured had not yet been established by the time of the initial police report.
The incident occurred in a busy market area where several members of the public were present.
Explosion Damages Nearby Trailer
A subsequent examination of the scene revealed the severity of the blast, with one of the deceased reportedly sustaining injuries that resulted in the dismemberment of parts of his body, while the other suffered severe head injuries.
A fragment from the exploded cylinder also struck a stationary white trailer, registration number UA 732DX, damaging its front bumper and windscreen.
The bodies were taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examinations, while the injured were evacuated to the same facility for medical treatment.
The wreckage of two motorcycles involved in the incident was taken to Lira City East Division Police for further management. The incident was also recorded in the police CITRAS system.
Police Investigations Underway
Territorial Police in North Kyoga Region, through Lira City East Division, have opened a case of Death by Explosion to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
Investigators are working to establish the cause of the explosion, verify the particulars of the deceased, identify the injured persons and obtain the postmortem examination results.
Police have urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution when handling gas cylinders and other pressurised equipment, particularly during repair work.
The police extended condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
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