Gas Explosion Kills One In Southwestern Russia

A suspected gas explosion in an apartment block in the southwestern Russian city of Balakovo has left one person dead and six injured.

Local officials said rescuers pulled 42 people, including 10 children, from the building, which was heavily damaged by the blast and subsequent fire on May 4.

Authorities said 107 firemen and 16 firefighting vehicles were dispatched to battle the blaze.

Firefighters said the fire, engulfing an area of about 30 square meters, was contained within an hour.

Based on reporting by TASS and Interfax