Eight deaths in gas blast at carnival

Eight people have died after a gas canister exploded at a Bolivian carnival parade. The toll of injured has risen to at least 40, it was reported last night. Police commander Romel Rana confirmed the rising death toll at a news conference.

Officials earlier reported six dead and 28 hurt in Saturday’s explosion in the city of Oruro, 155 miles south of the Bolivian capital, La Paz.

He said three children were among those who were killed.

Rana said police believe hot oil spilled and burned a hose connected to the tank, releasing gas that exploded.