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A dramatic vehicle collision sent a surge of alarm through the town of Dolianova on Monday, April 7, 2025, when a large-engined car plowed into a gasoline pump at the Tamoil service station on Via Cagliari, the main entrance to the town. The incident, which occurred shortly after 11:30 a.m., produced a loud bang that quickly drew nearby residents and passersby to the scene.
Witnesses reported seeing a plume of dust and a small fire erupting from the damaged pump. Acting on instinct, several locals grabbed fire extinguishers from adjacent shops and managed to douse the flames before they could spread to the station’s fuel tanks or nearby vehicles. “It was a matter of seconds,” said a shopkeeper who declined to be named. “If the fire had reached the underground tanks, it could have been catastrophic.”
Emergency services arrived within minutes. The Carabinieri from the local station and a specialized team from the Cagliari fire department cordoned off the area, inspected the pump for residual fuel leaks, and assessed structural damage. According to initial reports, the vehicle’s occupants—a man and a woman—were extricated by ambulance staff. They sustained only minor bruises and cuts, and were treated at the scene before being discharged. No hospital transport was required.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Early indications point to a possible mechanical failure—specifically, a brake or steering malfunction—that could have caused the driver to lose control abruptly. The Carabinieri have impounded the vehicle for a forensic examination. A spokesperson stated, “We are examining the car’s electronic control unit and mechanical components. A full report will be available in the coming days.”
The Tamoil station has been temporarily closed for safety and structural integrity checks. A fuel company representative confirmed that no gasoline or diesel was released into the environment, and the damaged pump has been isolated. “The station will remain shut until the pump is replaced and the entire system is certified by our engineers,” the representative said.
Local officials have called for a review of traffic safety measures on Via Cagliari, a busy road that sees heavy traffic entering and exiting Dolianova. “This intersection has been a concern for years. We need to consider speed bumps or better signage to prevent such incidents,” said a municipal councilor who requested anonymity.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about fire safety at petrol stations. Fire prevention experts note that the quick response of bystanders using fire extinguishers averted a much larger disaster. “Portable extinguishers are required at all service stations, but having them in nearby stores is a bonus. This case is a textbook example of community preparedness,” said a fire safety consultant.
As of late afternoon, the road was reopened to traffic, and the area around the pump remained fenced off. The car has been towed to a secure facility. The occupants, visibly shaken, declined to speak to the media.
This event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers at fuel stations. Motorists are advised to maintain their vehicles diligently, especially braking and steering systems, which are critical for sudden maneuvers. The Dolianova Carabinieri encourage anyone with dashcam footage of the crash to contact their station.
Update: As of 6:00 p.m., the station is expected to remain closed for at least 48 hours. The town’s other fuel retailers have been notified to handle increased demand. No further injuries have been reported.
