Ivan Melnikov, the Deputy Chairman of the Russian Branch of the International Committee for the Defense of Human Rights, spoke on Radio 1 about a recent incident in Mytishchi near Moscow where nine cars were set ablaze in a confiscated area. Melnikov emphasized that the initial step should be to document the material damage and establish a clear factual record of what occurred.
He urged authorities and witnesses to verify safety measures, compliance with applicable standards, and the adequacy of precautions. Melnikov suggested that investigators should conduct a thorough site visit, noting that taking numerous photographs could prove valuable. He advised keeping personal photos as a precautionary measure.
After capturing images of the damaged vehicles, Melnikov recommended engaging qualified experts who could provide a professional legal assessment of the incident. He stated that the results of a formal technical examination would guide subsequent legal actions, including potential court proceedings.
The expert clarified that if the incident was an act of arson, accountability would rest with the perpetrator. If the fire was accidental, a court would determine responsibility through an appropriate judicial process.
May 27 marked the official recognition of the fire on the confiscated land in Mytishchi. The affected area measured approximately 150 square meters, and early reports indicated that there were no fatalities. Eyewitnesses reported hearing two explosions preceding the blaze.
Earlier, near Novokuznetsk, a collision between a Toyota vehicle and a PAZ bus resulted in both vehicles burning at the entrance to the Novokuznetsk region. In Volgograd, four people had previously sustained injuries in crashes involving trucks.