A gas explosion in a six-story building on Ternopil Street in Khmelnytsky resulted in injuries to five individuals, including a child. This was reported by the State Emergency Service on Facebook.
“An explosion occurred in an apartment building, injuring five people, including one child. Nine apartments were partially destroyed, and 15 others were damaged,” the report stated.
Preliminary information suggests that someone may be trapped under the rubble.
Emergency services, including firefighters, medical personnel, gas services, Red Cross volunteers, psychologists, and law enforcement, are on-site. A point for providing psychological support has been established.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances and cause of the explosion.
As noted by Vasyl Novachok, the Deputy Mayor of Khmelnytsky, 18 apartments require evacuation due to the explosion.
“According to initial reports, a gas leak occurred in one of the apartments, leading to the explosion. One entrance has been severely damaged. It appears that 18 apartments will need to be evacuated, and a commission is currently working to find housing for those affected,” Novachok stated.
He added that some of these 18 apartments are beyond repair, necessitating significant construction work in the building.
Currently, all utilities in the four-entrance building have been shut off.
Law enforcement has initiated a criminal case regarding the gas explosion under part 2 of Article 270 (Violation of fire or technogenic safety requirements) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Police continue to interview witnesses and residents to determine if anyone might be trapped under the debris.