Massive fire in shopping center in Russia
Massive fire in a shopping center in Russia (video screenshot)
A massive fire broke out in the Gvozd shopping center in the Russian city of Ulan-Ude, Buryatia, during the night of November 7. The shopping center's roof collapsed during the incident.
According to Russian rescuers, the fire initially erupted on an area of 10,000 square meters, later spreading to cover 22,000 square meters. The fire also led to a partial collapse of the roof. However, as of now, there are reportedly no casualties or injuries resulting from the fire.
"Six people managed to evacuate on their own. According to preliminary information, there are no casualties," stated the Russian authorities. Given the scale of the incident, it is somewhat challenging to fully rely on this information.
Despite the involvement of over 100 rescuers and dozens of pieces of equipment in the firefighting efforts, the fire was only successfully contained on the morning of November 7.
Local Telegram channels report that all floors of the large building were engulfed in flames, and even though the fire has been partially contained, efforts to fully extinguish it are ongoing.
Currently, two possible causes of the fire are being investigated: a malfunction at the nearby auto repair shop or arson. The local prosecutor's office is conducting an inquiry.
Fires in Russia
Fires in Russia, particularly in shopping centers and other public places, are unfortunately not uncommon. Notable examples include the tragedy at the Kemerovo shopping center Zimniaya Vishnia in 2018, where 64 people lost their lives, and the fire at the Khromaya Loshad nightclub in 2009, which claimed the lives of over 150 people.
