Elin Pelin explosions: Negligence blamed for deadly warehouse fire
For nearly 24 hours, the residents of Elin Pelin in Bulgaria heard continuous explosions coming from burning fireworks warehouses. On Friday afternoon, Foreign Minister Kalin Stojanov announced at a press conference that the likely cause of the explosion was human negligence. One person's death has been confirmed.
The explosions, which lasted continuously for more than 24 hours, led to a massive fire. This fire subsequently consumed the neighbouring food warehouse, which was completely destroyed. Despite time, the fire department has not yet decided to enter the warehouses' premises. According to current safety regulations, this is permissible only 24 hours after the last recorded explosion.
"Human negligence". Explosions in Bulgaria
At Friday's press conference, Foreign Minister Kalin Stojanov conveyed that the cause of the explosions was most likely "human negligence." After working hours, a renowned scientist specializing in explosives entered the warehouse premises.
He was accompanied by the daughter and son of the facility's owner. The scientist, who was a well-known organizer of pyrotechnic shows, intended to collect fireworks for an upcoming wedding. According to information from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, an error most likely occurred, leading to the explosion.
It was the scientist above who died in the fire. His daughter is currently in hospital with severe burns covering 85% of her body. The warehouse owner's son is considered missing.
Massive damage
The explosions also affected the air quality in the nearby town, 14 miles from Sofia. According to doctors, pollution is hazardous for the elderly and the sick. On Thursday evening, authorities decided to evacuate residents. People can now return to their homes, and the previously suspended power supply has been restored.
The town's material damage is severe—many buildings have cracked walls, broken windows, and fallen plaster. Residents are questioning who allowed such large explosive material warehouses on the outskirts of the town.
