Prosecutors have launched an inquiry into the causes of a derailment in the Moscow metro on Tuesday morning that claimed the lives of at least 16 people.
Three metro cars slid off the tracks around 8:35 a.m. between the western Slavyansky Bulvar and Park Pobedy metro stations on the Blue Line.
Preliminary reports say the derailment might have been caused by a decrease in the electric voltage running through the tracks.
Deputy Mayor Maxim Liksutov said that in addition to the reported casualties, 80 people were injured in the accident, state news agency ITAR-Tass reported.
Federal Investigative Committee spokesman Vladimir Markin said his agency is considering opening a criminal case in response to the incident.
The evacuation of passengers from the train has now been completed, but an emergency hotline remains open for status updates on the incident: 8 (499) 787-2586.
Follow us on Twitter for more details on the deadly metro crash
See also:
Moscow Metro Passengers Post Eyewitness Accounts of Deadly Accident
Moscow Metro Death Toll Soars to 16, Another 106 Hospitalized
Victims of Moscow Metro Tragedy Could Get up to 2 Million Rubles Compensation
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
