2 killed, 9 injured in gas explosion in Russia

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) – A gas explosion in the city of Cherkessk, in Russia's Karachay-Cherkessia region, killed two people and injured at least nine on Thursday, according to the Emergency Situations Ministry.

Preliminary reports indicate that a gas leak caused the explosion, the ministry said.

Emergency services are currently on-site clearing the rubble, it added.

Temporary accommodation has been arranged for residents of the damaged building.

The Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case to determine all circumstances surrounding the incident.