17 people have died of suspected gas leak at the Angelo informal settlement in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni on Wednesday night.

The gas, nitrate oxide, was reported to have leaked from a gas cylinder used by zama-zamas who work out of a shack in the informal settlement.

ALSO READ: One person died after two trucks collide on Dendron road

Ekurhuleni EMS spokesperson William Ntladi has given a breakdown of the number of victims as well as the number of those hospitalised.

“[Among those who died were] eight men, five women and three children,” Ntladi. “Others have been resuscitated after the intervention of the paramedics on site. They were transported to Tambo Memorial Hospital for further medical care.

“Those admitted to the hospital are 16 in total. Four are in a critical state and 11 others are in a serious but stable condition. One was admitted in a fully conscious state,” he added.

BOKSBURG GAS LEAK KILLS 17 PEOPLE

Forensic investigators and police are also at the scene investigating the exact cause of the incident.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi who was at the scene on Wednesday night gave an assurance that the scene would remain protected throughout to avoid any possible contamination.

“It’s a painful scene to go through and to watch,” he said. “I am very hopeful the teams will do everything in their power to ensure that this scene is appropriately guarded.

“In a manner that will assist us to know the cause and provide answers to those who are affected.”

Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor, Sivuyile Ngodwana will this morning also visit the Angelo informal settlement.