Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine — An explosion rocked a residential building on Ternopil Street on October 28, 2025, leaving significant destruction in its wake. Preliminary reports indicate that nine apartments were completely destroyed, while an additional 15 sustained damage. Emergency crews are actively searching for a woman born in 1973 who has been reported missing, as confirmed by Serhiy Tyurin, head of the Khmelnytskyi Oblast State Administration.
In response to the disaster, local authorities set up emergency aid stations, including points of invincibility and Red Cross tents, to assist those affected. Investigators are exploring multiple explanations for the blast, with a potential domestic gas leak among the leads. The rubble removal process is currently underway.
Khmelnytskyi Mayor Oleksandr Symchyshyn remarked that the building has experienced catastrophic damage, necessitating the relocation of approximately 18 households. Another 32 residents are currently waiting for temporary housing solutions.
Rescue teams are on-site proceeding with debris clearance, and emergency workers suggest that more people may still be trapped beneath the wreckage, though this remains unconfirmed. “Our focus is to ensure the safety of any potential survivors,” said Tyurin.
In the wake of the explosion, authorities have initiated a criminal investigation under Article 270 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Deputy Mayor Vasyl Novachko emphasized that the situation demands thorough scrutiny, with multiple angles being assessed as possible causes of the incident.
Witnesses recounted the horrifying experience. One resident, Maria, described the moment of the explosion: “I thought it was an alarm. The smoke was so thick; you could hardly see anything.” Another witness, Anatoliy Stakhov, expressed his shock, saying he feared the explosion was a result of warfare.
Despite the chaos, it was reported that only one individual suffered minor injuries from glass shards, while four others faced psychological distress, for which immediate assistance was provided. Tyurin noted, “We are equipped to address both the physical and emotional needs of the affected residents.”
Authorities are also investigating the possibility of an explosive device being the cause of the blast. Investigators are anticipated to gather expert opinions as they piece together the events leading to the explosion. Local officials are focused on coordinating relocation efforts and outlining reconstruction plans for the damaged areas.
