Explosion At Moscow Restaurant Kills Three And Injures 21
Three people were killed and twenty one others injured after a powerful explosion tore through a restaurant in central Moscow on Saturday evening.
The blast occurred near Kudrinskaya Square at the Balzi Rossi Italian restaurant, where a private event was taking place. Emergency services rushed to the scene after the explosion, which caused extensive damage to the building and left dozens requiring medical treatment.
Russian authorities said the explosion was caused by a homemade improvised explosive device. According to investigators, a woman attempted to enter the restaurant carrying the device but was stopped by a security guard at the entrance before it detonated. The woman, the security guard, and a restaurant guest were killed in the blast.
At least 21 people were injured, with several reported to be in critical condition. Emergency crews, firefighters, and heavily armed police secured the area while investigators searched the scene for forensic evidence and possible accomplices.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin described the incident as a "brutal terrorist act", promising that those responsible would be identified and brought to justice. Russia's Investigative Committee and the National Anti Terrorism Committee have launched a criminal investigation into the attack.
Although no organisation has claimed responsibility, unconfirmed reports suggest a senior Russian military figure attending the private gathering may have been the intended target. Russian authorities have not officially confirmed the motive and said investigations remain ongoing.
The bombing is the latest in a series of high profile attacks inside Russia since the war in Ukraine began in 2022. Previous incidents have included targeted killings of military officials and pro Kremlin figures, with Moscow frequently accusing Ukrainian intelligence of involvement. Ukraine has not commented on the latest explosion.
Security has been increased across central Moscow as investigators continue gathering evidence. Authorities urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation progresses and said further information would be released as it becomes available.
Got a news story or tip to share? Contact our editorial team by emailing news@lakelandpost.co.uk or call us directly on 0333 090 2080.