A series of powerful explosions shook the heart of Moscow’s financial district earlier on Wednesday, following a car explosion that sparked a fire in an underground parking area, according to early reports from local authorities and media outlets.
The incident occurred at the Afimall City shopping center, where the fire broke out in a subterranean parking garage. Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations confirmed the blaze, stating, “A car is on fire in the underground parking area of an administrative building.”
A Russian news outlet, which reported the incident first, said the fire was caused by a car explosion inside the parking facility. The flames have since been brought under control, according to the same report.
Three explosions followed by a large fire in #Moscow… Emergency service are in route. Looks like a parking garage.#OSINT pic.twitter.com/yp64QHhDeO
— OSINT Intuit 🇺🇸 🇨🇦 🇬🇧 🇺🇦 🇮🇱 🇬🇪 (@UKikaski) April 23, 2025
Emergency services, including an ambulance and multiple fire crews, responded swiftly and remain at the scene. As of now, there are no reports of any casualties or injuries.
The cause of the car explosion remains unknown, and authorities have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the possible origins or whether foul play is suspected. Investigations are ongoing.