Tragedy in downtown Moscow

Moscow, December 9, 2003 /RIA “Novosti”. A massive explosion has rattled several minutes ago in “Natioanal” hotel in downtown Moscow. According to RIA “Novosti”, a car parked nearby has exploded. Five people were found lying right next the car right after the blast. Hotel windows were shattered on first and second floors. The State Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed the accident on Tverskaya street # 1 to RIA “Novosti”. According to the Ministry’s representative, a total of eight people have been hurt as a result of the accident. There were five people based on the earlier information. A special unit from the State Ministry of Internal Affairs has already arrived to the scene. Moscow’s Emergency Unit reported to RIA “Novosti” that they posses certain information about the explosion. RIA “Nocvosti” states that Moscow police has already surrounded the area. Public transportation has been stopped. More “Emergency” vehicles are approaching to the scene. Doctors are aiding those injured in the explosion. Two people have already been taken to the hospital.

According to the latest information from the Associated Press, a female suicide bomber detonated explosives in a car near Moscow's Red Square on Tuesday, killing five people and injuring 13, the ITAR-Tass news agency reported.

The Associate Press RIA “Novosti”