Meter-high flames

Explosion in restaurant: six dead in the Czech Republic

30 people were able to escape from the flames.(Bild: Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic)

Six people have died in an explosion and fire in a restaurant in the Czech Republic. Eight people were also injured and taken to hospital, according to the fire department. According to initial statements from witnesses, a gas heater fell over and the propane gas cylinder ignited.

The fire broke out on Sunday night. The accident occurred in a restaurant in the center of the industrial city of Most (Brüx). According to the emergency services, the flames spread unusually quickly. Czech Interior Minister Vit Rakusan wrote on X that he was in close contact with the fire department and police. Around 30 people were able to escape to safety from the restaurant and neighboring buildings.

Restaurant completely burnt down
A reporter from the public broadcaster reported that the restaurant had burned down completely. The flames were two to three meters high, as can be seen from the marks on neighbouring buildings. A structural engineer is now to check whether the building needs to be demolished.

The police have opened an investigation into suspected public endangerment. In the Czech Republic, such an offense is committed by anyone who negligently causes a danger to the life or limb of a large number of people or to other people's property on a large scale.