2 killed, 30 injured in fire at Russian military research facility

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Two people were killed and over 30 injured in a fire at a research facility of the Russian Aerospace Forces in the western city of Tver, authorities said on Thursday.

"Two people were killed, the fate of another one is being established, with reports of his death being verified. About 30 people were injured. In total, more than 30 people were evacuated from the building," the Russian Emergency Ministry said in a statement.

Seven people were taken to hospital with severe burns, including three in serious condition, according to the ministry.

The fire engulfed an area of 1,500 square meters (over 16,000 sq feet) and six firefighting units and a helicopter are engaged in putting it out, the statement said.

The top three floors of a four-story wooden building are burning and its roof collapsed, it added.

According to preliminary data, a malfunction in electrical wiring caused the fire.