Officials in Melitopol confirmed that the car owner who was hurt when the vehicle exploded in the city center later died in the hospital where he was treated. The confirmation came from the Melitopol Emergency Services, which stated that IvAN Tkach, the owner of the car involved in the blast in the heart of Melitopol today, succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical care. The update underscores the severity of the incident and the toll it took on those nearby, as authorities work to determine the sequence of events that led to the explosion.
Earlier updates from local authorities indicated that two people were wounded in the blast, with both a man and a woman being transported to a hospital for treatment. Officials cautioned that casualty numbers could change as the situation was assessed and medical teams provided care to the injured. The focus for investigators at that stage was to secure the scene, preserve evidence, and reconstruct the timeline of events that culminated in the detonation in the city’s central district. These details are part of the ongoing inquiry being conducted by regional emergency and security services.
There was initial reporting that described the blast as having a significant explosive force, with estimates suggesting the device could have contained around a kilogram of TNT. Witnesses reported seeing smoke lingering across multiple areas of the city in the moments following the explosion, a sign that prompted responders to mobilize quickly and coordinate with hospitals to manage casualties. The vehicle involved in the blast was rendered completely inoperable as a result of the blast, highlighting the destructive power of the incident and the danger it posed to nearby residents and bystanders.
In the wake of the event, investigators are reviewing multiple lines of inquiry to determine whether the blast was accidental or intentional and to identify any individuals or groups that may be connected to the incident. First responders remain on scene to assist with security, traffic flow, and any potential hazards, while forensic teams collect evidence from the vehicle and surrounding areas. The local administration has pledged full cooperation with national authorities to provide a clear account of what occurred and to share findings as they become available. This commitment reflects the seriousness with which Melitopol and the broader Zaporizhzhia region are treating a blast that disrupted daily life and raised concerns about public safety.
Residents of Melitopol and nearby communities are urged to stay away from the central district until officials issue clearance, and to follow guidance from emergency services regarding road closures and access restrictions. Community leaders have emphasized the importance of supporting those affected by the incident, including the families of the victims, and ensuring that medical facilities can continue to operate under pressure. As the investigation progresses, authorities expect to provide regular updates on the status of the casualties, any new findings, and the steps being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The situation remains fluid, with law enforcement, emergency responders, and regional officials coordinating closely to restore a sense of safety to the city and to the residents who rely on their prompt response in moments of crisis. ”