Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The number of victims from a gas explosion in a residential building in Samarkand has risen to seven, according to a report aired on the program Millar.

The incident occurred during the night of 9 May in a multi-story building located on Spitamen Street in the Bogisaroy mahalla. According to preliminary reports, a gas leak in one of the apartments led to the ignition of a gas-air mixture. Although there was no fire, the powerful explosion caused the collapse of reinforced concrete structures. The basement, as well as the first, second, and third floors of the building, sustained significant damage.

Emergency services worked through the night to carry out rescue operations at the scene. Initially, six bodies were recovered. On the morning of 10 May, the body of a seventh victim was found beneath the rubble.

A preliminary investigation is underway. Specialists are working to determine the exact circumstances of the incident and to assess whether gas equipment was used in accordance with safety regulations.