Two Ka-32 helicopters were dispatched to assist in fighting a blaze at a six-story residential building located in the northern part of Moscow. The emergency services confirmed the arrival of the two aircraft, which were deployed from the Moscow Aviation Center to support ground crews as they worked to contain the fire and protect surrounding structures.
Initial reports indicated that the fire originated on the roof of the building and rapidly spread to two neighboring houses. Witness accounts, though preliminary, described intense flames leaping across the roofline and smoke enveloping the area as responders moved quickly to secure the scene and begin evacuation measures where possible. Fire crews established a perimeter to prevent the flames from crossing into adjacent properties while investigators assessed the evolving situation on the ground and in the air.
The situation prompted the evacuation of residents toward a nearby commercial center, the Gallery Airport shopping mall, where authorities coordinated temporary shelter and safety checks for those displaced. There were no confirmed details yet about any injuries at the time of the latest briefing. Emergency officials stressed that all safety protocols were in place and that the priority remained the rapid and orderly relocation of residents from danger zones, followed by a meticulous suppression effort aimed at neutralizing the flames without endangering onlookers or responders.
Investigators are evaluating several plausible causes as potential triggers for the fire. Among the possibilities mentioned were arson, a malfunction in electrical systems, and careless intervention in the event of a blaze. Officials emphasized that these hypotheses were under review as part of a standard investigative process designed to determine fault and inform future prevention strategies. The inquiry would also examine building materials and structural elements that may have influenced the spread and intensity of the flames.
As efforts continued, the attic area of the residential building collapsed, complicating the firefighting operation and underscoring the hazards faced by crews operating in an active burning environment. Rescue teams and engineers coordinated to search for any residents who might be trapped and to safeguard neighboring structures that could be affected by falling debris or shifting fire dynamics. The incident underscored the importance of rapid response, coordinated air and ground support, and ongoing assessments by specialists to ensure both public safety and the integrity of nearby properties.
Historically, experts note that fires in urban settings can escalate quickly, especially in densely populated areas with multi-story buildings and complex architectural layouts. Firefighters continue to monitor the affected district, adjusting tactics as the situation evolves and as new information becomes available from field observations and official briefings. In this case, the collaboration between air support and ground crews is viewed as a critical component of an effective response, aimed at limiting damage and preserving life while authorities determine the root causes and lessons for improved fire prevention and safety protocols in the future.