An explosion occurred at a restaurant in the central area of Moscow, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, as reported by Russian state media. The incident also left 21 people injured, with some in critical condition, while investigators, forensic specialists, and emergency responders are actively engaged at the site. The explosion, caused by a homemade explosive device, took place at an Italian restaurant situated in Kudrinskaya Square.
Among the casualties were the perpetrator, a security guard, and a customer at the upscale Balzi Rossi restaurant. The National Anti-Terrorist Committee disclosed that a woman carrying explosives tried to enter the establishment but was thwarted, leading to the detonation that claimed her life, along with the guard and a patron.
The tragic event unfolded around 8 pm local time (5 pm UK time), and investigations are ongoing, as confirmed by the Moscow Investigative Committee to the RIA news agency. Video footage released by the agency depicted heavily armed law enforcement officers on the scene, with nearby roads sealed off to the public.
Witnesses recounted seeing individuals exiting the venue covered in blood post-explosion. Authorities have refrained from disclosing the identities of the victims or the suspected perpetrators at this stage.
The injured individuals sustained injuries of varying degrees of severity, as per the police’s statement. Notably, the restaurant had announced closure on Saturday for a private gathering on its outdoor terrace.
Balzi Rossi is positioned at the base of the Kudrinskaya Square Building, a significant Stalinist-era skyscraper in Moscow constructed during the 1950s.
Chef Carmine Alfieri of Balzi Rossi reassured the public, stating, “We’re all fine, and our restaurant and kitchen are in perfect condition; there was just a minor issue at the restaurant entrance,” on Instagram, offering no further details.
Moreover, numerous cyclists had assembled nearby for an evening cycling excursion.
