Three dead in an explosion in a central Moscow restaurant

At least three people were killed and 15 others injured Saturday in an explosion at a central Moscow restaurant, according to the city’s police, which has not yet confirmed the cause of the incident. The blast occurred at the Italian restaurant Balzi Rossi, located on the ground floor of an Stalinist-style skyscraper on Kudrinskaya Square, near the Barrikadnaya Metro station. The establishment was closed to the public for a private event at the time of the explosion. According to reports, the restaurant had been hosting either a birthday party for a general or a wedding for 50 guests. Public figure Anastasia Kashevarova noted that someone from the elite was celebrating at one of Moscow's most expensive restaurants. The explosion took place near the terrace of the restaurant, in the kitchen area, according to the Telegram channel Baza. The official preliminary account suggests the blast resulted from a gas leak in the kitchen equipment. The restaurant had been closed for a private function. Moscow Police told RIA Novosti that the explosion happened around 20:10 local time, leaving three dead and 15 injured with varying degrees of severity. Traffic restrictions were imposed on several exits of the city ring road and adjacent streets following the incident. Authorities cordoned off the area surrounding the building where the explosion occurred. The Moscow Department of Transport announced that the Night Bicycle Festival, scheduled to begin later the same night near the city center, had been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. Kashevarova confirmed through her channel that someone from the elite was holding a celebration at Balzi Rossi, describing it as one of the priciest establishments in Moscow. She added that regular patrons include Yana Rudkovskaya, a music producer, Victoria Bonya, a well-known influencer who recently asked President Vladimir Putin not to block the internet, as well as officials and politicians. Witness accounts indicated that numerous vehicles with black license plates were parked near the restaurant. In Russia, black license plates with white characters identify vehicles belonging to military organizations or certain bodies of the National Guard, though they may also be used by some units of the Federal Security Service (FSB). It appears that a bus from the National Guard was also present nearby. The incident has drawn attention to the security measures around high-profile locations in Moscow. While the police have not officially confirmed the cause of the explosion, initial speculation points toward a technical malfunction related to the restaurant’s kitchen facilities. However, the presence of multiple vehicles associated with state institutions raises questions about whether the event was attended by individuals connected to government or military circles. Balzi Rossi is known for its exclusivity and clientele, often frequented by influential figures in politics, entertainment, and business. Its location in the heart of Moscow, near key transport hubs and landmarks, adds to the significance of the incident. As investigations continue, authorities are likely to examine both the structural safety of the building and the protocols followed during private events held within such venues. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, providing medical assistance to the injured and securing the area to prevent further incidents. The number of casualties could still rise as more information emerges from ongoing assessments. Meanwhile, the disruption to planned events highlights the broader impact of such emergencies on urban life in major cities. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is expected to involve forensic experts and officials responsible for public safety regulations.