A gas tanker has exploded near Mexico City killing at least 9 people and injuring 13 others.

The blast in the suburb of Ecatepec early this morning also destroyed several nearby buildings and cars.

Local media are reporting the explosion may have been caused by a crash between the tanker and a passenger bus.

Reports also say 15 vehicles and 20 houses were hit by the early morning blast. TV footage showed burned-out vehicles and debris on a motorway at the edge of the capital.

Back in January an explosion at the headquarters of State oil giant Pemex in Mexico City claimed dozens of lives.