Prominent Russian Physicist's SUV Explodes in Residential Complex in Moscow

A Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Prado exploded and burned early on December 1 in New Moscow, leaving investigators to determine whether the blast was caused by a technical failure or a deliberate attack.

Suspicious blasts precede massive fire

The incident occurred in the courtyard of the high-rise complex Grad Moskovsky on Raduzhnaya Street in the settlement of Moskovsky. The SUV had been parked directly beside an entrance. Several videos captured by residents show the vehicle engulfed in flames; it was completely destroyed despite firefighters’ efforts.

Photos show tiles stripped from the nearest entrance and windows blown out on the third and fourth floors. No one was inside the vehicle at the time, and no pedestrians were injured. The Ministry of Emergency Situations stated that the fire resulted from a technical malfunction and that no explosion occurred.

However, eyewitnesses reported hearing several loud blasts before the fire. According to 112, investigators are examining whether an improvised explosive device was placed under the driver’s seat. A source cited by REN TV added that a “Ukrainian trace” is also under consideration.

Vehicle belonged to leading quantum electronics scientist

The SUV belonged to a forty-one-year-old physicist specializing in quantum electronics and laser technologies, a doctor of physical and mathematical sciences, and a researcher at the Stelmakh Research Institute Polus, which also produces military-related equipment.

The scientist is currently on a business trip in a Southeast Asian country. Locals reported that he had recently moved into the building next to where the incident occurred.