Fire at Russian research institute claims lives; several trapped

In the city of Fryazino, near Moscow, Russia, a research institute building, "Platan," is on fire. The building is involved in the production of electronic parts and radio components. The fire has engulfed four floors, and approximately ten people are trapped inside. Authorities report two fatalities.

According to the Baza channel, the fire appeared on the 4th and 5th floors of the building. As reported by the msk1.ru portal, people are trapped inside the building. "The recording shows them waving from the building's windows and asking for help, shouting that they are running out of air," it reads.

The research institute has a facility specializing in producing electronic components and communication devices.

"Firefighters have started a rescue operation on the upper floors of the burning Platan Research Institute building in Fryazino near Moscow," emergency services informed, as quoted by RIA Novosti.

According to the 112 channel, approximately ten people are trapped on the 8th floor of the burning Platan Research Institute.

Baza added in a statement that at least one person had been injured. "Rescuers cannot reach the trapped people; firefighters are preparing a ladder. The fire has not yet been localized – it is spreading across the ceilings," it reads.

The governor of the oblast and the director of the regional emergency ministry unit are on their way to the scene.

RIA Novosti reported, citing rescue teams, that four floors of the building are burning. "The firefighters’ work is hindered by high temperatures and thick smoke," it reads.

Moments later, the Mash channel reported that the fire area in the Platan Research Institute had increased to 25,000 square feet. "The fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth floors are burning. People who leaned out of the windows to catch their breath disappeared into the dense black smoke. The fire is being fought by 72 rescuers and 24 units of equipment, including lifting mechanisms," the statement reads.

Reuters, citing Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov, reported that two people had died. The Shot channel reports four fatalities, including two people who jumped from the burning building.