British Tourist Critically Injured in Rome Gas Explosion

A gas explosion in Monteverde destroyed a B&B, leaving Grant Paterson with severe burns and prompting investigations into a possible gas leak.

Grant Paterson, a 54-year-old British tourist from East Kilbride, suffered burns to 70-75% of his body and remains hospitalized in critical condition at Sant’Eugenio Hospital in Rome.
The explosion occurred on March 23, 2025, in a three-story B&B in Rome’s Monteverde neighborhood, causing the building to collapse and significant structural damage to the area, including the wall of Villa Pamphili.
Firefighters rescued Paterson from the rubble after nearly an hour; no other injuries were reported, though officials are considering evacuations of nearby buildings as a safety precaution.
Initial investigations suggest a gas leak, possibly from a cylinder, as the cause of the explosion, though the building’s gas meters were found intact, and authorities are continuing their inquiry.
The property, once occupied by Italian author Roberto Saviano, has drawn attention due to its history, though Saviano clarified he no longer resides there.