Fire at former Moscow power plant disrupts fitness complex
A large fire broke out in the building of a former power plant in Moscow, which currently houses a fitness club, skatepark, and dance studio. Approximately 200 people were evacuated.
The fire began in the building of a former power plant in eastern Moscow. The upper floors of the building were quickly filled with smoke.
"Some people saved themselves by breaking windows, while others were evacuated by rescuers," reports the Russian independent portal Meduza.
More than 60 firefighters participated in the rescue operation. About 200 people were saved from the building. Around 120 left on their own, while 80 were assisted by rescuers. The TASS agency reported that four people were hospitalized.
State news agencies suggested that the fire might have been caused by an electrical equipment short circuit. The Shot portal stated that there was no automatic fire alarm system in the building.
"Residents report that white smoke is visible. There is a sharp smell at the fire site," reported the Shot portal, which published a recording.
The building, once a power plant, currently hosted dozens of rooms used by various service points.
"At the time the fire broke out, a cadet class was organizing a photo session to celebrate graduation. The students said that the entire class managed to escape quickly," reports the portal MSK1.ru.
Source: Meduza, TASS, Ria Novosti, Shot
