Eyewitnesses reported to socialbites.ca that a blaze in a two-story residence in Rostov-on-Don’s downtown area was likely triggered by an electrical fault. The incident occurred at the Iskra cafe, and no fatalities were recorded among those present as evacuations were completed before flames spread widely.
Officials said the public faced no casualties, and residents were guided to safety as firefighting teams arrived promptly. The absence of a fire hydrant in the vicinity complicated initial efforts, allowing flames to reach the roof before hoses could be fully extended. Fire crews adapted quickly, addressing the hose length shortfall and ultimately bringing the fire under control. The preliminary assessment pointed to an electrical malfunction as the probable ignition source, and there was no observed panic among bystanders. A family member assisting a mother down the stairs remained calm, with witnesses noting the son’s evident concern for her safety and his cooperation with firefighters.
Another witness told socialbites.ca that the hood area of the Iskra cafe ignited, contributing to the intensity of the flames in the structure.
Fire responders reported rapid arrival, with the facility’s hood burning and the house roof catching fire during the incident, according to on-scene comments from residents.
The 161.ru portal later reported a separate fire at the intersection of Gazetny Lane and Serafimovich Street. Smoke blanketed the street, and the odor of burning lingered as the fire extended into the city center. Emergency services confirmed that the roof was ablaze across a wide area of the building complex.
In Karelia, a separate, retaliatory incident occurred when an individual attacked a residence to settle a score with a relative who had set a previous blaze.