Two people have died in a fire that engulfed an apartment and scaffolding at the Y. Ya. Smirnov tenement building on the Obvodny Canal embankment. The blaze required the response of 27 rescuers and temporarily halted major repairs that were underway.

The fire was reported at 1:26 PM in a three-room apartment spanning 130 square meters at 183 Obvodny Canal embankment. Within minutes, the fire was escalated to an increased rank (1BIS) as it spread from the apartment on the third floor to the scaffolding, covering 65 square meters. Firefighters tackled the blaze, navigating the burning scaffolding to reach the source.

By 2:12 PM, the fire was localized, with open burning ceased. The increased rank was canceled at 3:23 PM, marking the complete extinguishment of the fire. Seven pieces of equipment were deployed to the scene.

Fifteen people, including a child, were evacuated from the building. Residents reported smelling smoke around 1:20 PM, prompting them to call the fire department. Among those evacuated were also pets, including a ginger cat rescued by EMERCOM employees. Sadly, two bodies were discovered inside the apartment, and their identities are still being determined. Sources suggest that the apartment’s occupants were known to neighbors for their alcohol consumption. Investigators are currently examining the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Major repairs have been in progress at the building since April, with a scheduled completion in October. However, work has now been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. Before repairs can resume, the stability of the scaffolding, the humidity of the brickwork, and the cleanliness of the facade from soot will need to be assessed. The Capital Repair Fund still hopes to finalize the work by the end of 2025.