Car Explosion Near Delhi’s Red Fort Kills Eight, Injures At Least 19

A car explosion near the historic Red Fort in New Delhi, India, today killed eight people and injured at least 19 others, prompting a high security alert across the capital.

The blast, which ignited a fire that damaged nearby vehicles, occurred near a gate of the Red Fort metro station around 5:49 PM local time. Witness Om Prakash Gupta, who lives near the scene, described seeing “body parts all over” and a body on the windscreen of a car. Cab driver Shahrukh reported hearing a loud explosion and fleeing the area. The 17th-century Red Fort is a major tourist destination and a symbol of India’s history.

Home Minister Amit Shah stated that a Hyundai i20 was involved in the explosion and that CCTV footage is being reviewed as part of the investigation. “We are exploring all possibilities and will conduct a thorough investigation, taking all possibilities into account,” Shah said. Nineteen injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at a government hospital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, wishing a speedy recovery to those injured. This incident raises concerns about security in the region, particularly given the proximity to key government buildings.

The National Investigation Agency, India’s federal terror investigating agency, along with other agencies, is leading the investigation. Authorities have placed New Delhi’s international airport, metro stations, and government buildings on high alert. Officials say they will share the results of the investigation with the public as soon as possible.