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.