President Weah Declares Week of National Mourning After Tragic Tanker Explosion in Liberia

Monrovia, Liberia – In a solemn declaration, President Weah announced a week of national mourning commencing on Sunday, January 7, 2024. This somber period follows devastating reports from health authorities revealing a rising toll of casualties resulting from the tragic tanker explosion in Totota, Central Liberia, on Tuesday, December 26.

The heart-wrenching incident unfolded as a gas tanker, swerving off the road, became ensnared, leading locals to attempt to collect its contents. According to Dr. Francis Kateh, Liberia’s Chief Medical Officer, approximately 40 lives were lost immediately, with numerous others transported to various hospitals nationwide for urgent medical attention. Regrettably, the death toll continues to climb as individuals with severe burns succumb to their injuries.

In this challenging time, the president is extending heartfelt sympathies to the affected families and all those touched by this unfortunate event. He is urging the nation to stand united in support of the grieving families. President Weah has also implored health authorities to mobilize all available resources, reinforcing personnel and equipment to address the escalating number of casualties.

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According to the president, the distressing images from the incident weigh heavily on our hearts, and he is calling upon the bereaved families to find solace in the Lord during this trying period. The president extend gratitude to all prelates and places of worship, urging them to persist in their prayers for the bereaved families and the injured.

To honor the memory of the lives lost, he also directed that flags on all public buildings be flown at half-mast throughout the week of national mourning. May this gesture symbolize our collective grief and solidarity as we navigate this challenging time as a nation.