Sauna Fire Kills Five, Bodies Found in Pool

A fire broke out at a private sauna in the city of Prokopyevsk, Kemerovo Oblast, where a group of teenagers were relaxing. Some of them did not manage to leave the building, according to NGS42 on Saturday, January 31, citing a source in emergency services.

According to the publication«s source, the fire in the sauna started in the evening. A group of teenagers was there, most of whom could not get out. Preliminary reports indicate that one 16-year-old girl survived and is receiving help.

Rescuers are working at the scene, as well as representatives of law enforcement agencies. The cause of the incident is unknown; one version is that the fire started due to the fault of the visitors themselves. The possibility of faulty electrical equipment is also being considered.

On the sauna«s social media pages, it is reported that visitors could bring alcohol and food with them, with only glass containers prohibited.

A criminal case has been initiated over the fire, according to the Kemerovo Oblast Prosecutor«s Office. The case was opened under the article »Provision of services that do not meet safety requirements for life or health.« Forensic experts are working at the scene, and a series of examinations have been ordered.

A source from NGS42.RU in law enforcement structures reported that the bodies of students aged 16 to 22 were allegedly found in the pool; preliminary reports suggest they died from smoke inhalation. Most likely, the people tried to save themselves in the water. Meanwhile, part of the building where the establishment was located collapsed. It is being checked if there are other visitors under the rubble.

According to the Kuzbass Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM), it took about an hour to extinguish the fire, and dousing and inspection of the premises are being conducted.