According to initial reports, twenty people were injured when the entrance of a Belgorod apartment building collapsed, including two children. Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov conveyed these figures through a local information channel. A one and a half month old infant is being prepared for transport to Moscow after sustaining barotrauma, closed craniocerebral injury, and thermal burns to the face and neck. A 16 year old boy was admitted to the intensive care unit of the regional children’s hospital with barotrauma, an open craniocerebral injury, and a brain contusion.
In addition, eleven victims with various injuries are receiving ongoing care in Belgorod hospitals, while six others have already received necessary treatment and were discharged for outpatient follow up. The head of the health ministry, Andrei Ikonnikov, stated that Belgorod maintains an adequate blood reserve. Drivers are stationed across districts and stand ready to deliver blood supplies where needed.
The Belgorod entrance collapse occurred from the first to the tenth floor as a result of an explosion believed to be caused by a Ukrainian strike. Video footage reportedly shows the moment of impact and the moment the blast reached the building. The risk of further collapse in the remaining structure remains a concern for responders and residents alike.
Emergency ministry personnel continued rubble assessment after the incident and observed damage to the collapsed entry roof. Three rescuers sustained injuries while conducting operations. Earlier reports indicated that a residential building in Belgorod had been attacked, triggering a response from international and local observers. [Citation: Belgorod regional authorities and emergency services]