A tragic explosion occurred at a military police building in Sertolovo, Leningrad Oblast. The incident resulted in at least three fatalities and partial collapse of the building. Russian rescue services are conducting operations in the rubble, while military authorities have launched an investigation into safety regulation violations. The causes of the incident north of St. Petersburg are currently under investigation by local authorities.

Three Fatalities

The bodies of three individuals were extracted from the rubble of the partially collapsed building, and searches for possible additional victims continue.

Destruction of Military Facility

The explosion led to the collapse of several floors of the military police headquarters in Sertolovo.

Investigation into Negligence

Military investigative authorities are examining the case for violations of fire safety requirements and gross negligence by personnel.

Smell of Gunpowder at the Scene

Witnesses reported a distinct smell of gunpowder immediately after the blast, suggesting the detonation of explosive materials.

On Tuesday, around 14:25 Moscow time, a violent explosion occurred at a facility belonging to the military police in Sertolovo near St. Petersburg. The explosion was powerful enough to cause the collapse of several floors of the building. According to official information provided by the governor of Leningrad Oblast, Aleksandr Drozdenko, the bodies of three victims were recovered from the rubble. The number of injured remains unclear, but local media report at least several people transported to hospitals. Leningrad Oblast, due to its strategic location near the border with NATO countries and the presence of Baltic ports, constitutes one of the most important military hubs of the Russian Federation since army reforms following the 2008 war in Georgia.Rescue services immediately began searching the debris, fearing that other personnel might be trapped. Witnesses reported on social media hearing a powerful blast and an intense smell of gunpowder in the area. Military investigative authorities have already launched an investigation into possible negligence and violations of fire safety regulations. Some independent sources suggest the building may have served as a training point for volunteers sent to the front, adding further context given ongoing warfare. „I have ordered security services to provide full support to the military in clearing the rubble and rescuing victims after the collapse of the military police building.” — Aleksandr DrozdenkoIt remains unclear whether the explosion resulted from an accident while handling ammunition or from third-party actions. It is worth noting that since the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine, unexplained incidents and fires have regularly occurred at Russian military facilities. The situation in Sertolovo is being monitored by central command, and the unit's area has been completely cordoned off by police. 3 — fatalities from the explosion in Sertolovo Timeline of the Sertolovo Incident: February 17, 14:25 — Explosion; February 17, 15:00 — Rescue Operation; February 17, 16:30 — Casualties Confirmed; February 17, 18:50 — Investigation Launched Western-leaning media emphasize chaos in Russian military structures and suggest possible links to sabotage actions. | Russian state media focus on technical causes of the accident and violations of health and safety regulations, avoiding speculation about an attack.

Mentioned People

  • Aleksandr Drozdenko — Governor of Leningrad Oblast, who was the first to officially confirm information about the explosion and fatalities.