At least 13 people were killed and 20 others injured in a devastating car explosion near the historic Red Fort in India’s capital on Monday night.

The blast, which occurred at a busy traffic signal near the Lal Quila metro station, has prompted authorities to invoke anti-terror legislation as investigations intensify.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and horror. “The fire reached the top of the street lights… people were running, some were on fire,” said a witness named Kumar. Another, Irfan, recounted seeing dismembered bodies and widespread destruction. The explosion reportedly damaged 10 to 12 vehicles and sent shockwaves through the adjacent Chandni Chowk market.

The Delhi Police confirmed that the blast originated from a Hyundai i20 vehicle that had stopped at a red light. The car’s ownership trail is under scrutiny, with multiple individuals detained, including a previous owner and a recent buyer. The vehicle bore a Haryana registration plate.

Authorities are probing a possible link to a terror module uncovered earlier in Faridabad, just 30 kilometers from the blast site. Two Kashmiri doctors were arrested in connection with the seizure of explosives, and the car involved in the blast has reportedly been traced to one of them.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed justice for the victims, while Home Minister Amit Shah said all investigative agencies are on high alert. International reactions included condolences from Egypt and security advisories from the U.S. and U.K.

The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of Indian independence, has been targeted in the past. Monday’s attack is the deadliest in Delhi since the 2011 High Court bombing.

The incident has reignited security concerns in the capital, with Rajasthan’s Chief Minister ordering heightened vigilance across sensitive sites. As families mourn their loved ones, including victims like Mohsin, an e-rickshaw driver, and Noman, a shopkeeper, calls for accountability and justice grow louder.

Authorities continue to investigate the motive and perpetrators behind the blast, with the possibility of further arrests in the coming days.