Death toll in residential Russian bomber crash rises to 13
Moscow, Oct 18 (EFE).- The death toll from the Russian fighter jet that crashed into a residential building in the southern Russian port town of Yeysk as risen to 13, according to officials.
On Monday night, local authorities reported at least three deaths, but during the search and rescue operation another 10 bodies were found, according to Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations.
“Rescuers have completed clearing the debris. Ten bodies were found during rescue activities, which brings the total number of deaths to thirteen people, including three children. Nineteen people were injured,” the ministry’s representative said, according to Russian state news outlet Tass on Tuesday.
During the rescue and debris removal, 68 people were saved, while more than 360 people were evacuated, it added.
The Su-34 bomber crashed into the courtyard of a nine-storey residential building after an engine caught fire during takeoff for a training flight on Monday, according to the defense ministry.
The pilots ejected before the plane struck the building, but the crash resulted in the jet fuel igniting and engulfing the apartments.
The Russian Investigative Committee, under the presidency, opened a criminal case into the incident.
President Vladimir Putin ordered that all necessary assistance be provided to the injured and relatives of the victims.
The town of Yeysk sits on the Sea of Azov opposite Ukraine’s Mariupol city. EFE
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