An explosion hits the Russian city on the border with Ukraine, leaving gaping holes in the streets. Photo/RT
Footage circulating online shows the aftermath of the event, which locals liken to an earthquake.
The exact nature of the falling object was not immediately clear. According to local governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, the object left a 20-metre-high crater on the road, and damaged several cars and shattered windows on nearby buildings.
“Two civilians were injured in the incident,” Gladkov was quoted as saying RTFriday (21/4/2023).
One woman suffered minor bruises, while another sustained head injuries and was eventually hospitalized.
The shockwave caused by the impact between the object and the road sent a car flying into the air and onto a nearby one-story building.
CCTV footage circulating online shows the projectile hitting the ground and apparently penetrating deep into it. It exploded moments later, sending a torrent of dirt and bits of pavement into the air.
The region has been repeatedly targeted by drone and missile attacks, as well as sporadic artillery fire by Ukrainian forces since Moscow launched its military offensive in February last year.
The attack has claimed the lives of around 30 civilians, Gladkov said the previous day during a meeting with local legislators. More than 120 others have various injuries, according to official figures.
(ian)
