Causes of Explosion on Arin-Berd Street in Yerevan Revealed

On June 18, around 11:00 AM, an explosion occurred on Arin-Berd Street in Yerevan during metal cutting work involving a metal cutting device operating with gas and oxygen cylinders. The incident resulted in the death of one employee, while another was injured and transported to the ‘Erebuni’ medical center.

The Investigative Committee of Armenia reports that an investigation is underway in the Yerevan investigative division concerning the death of an employee and injuries to another as a result of the explosion.

According to preliminary data, the explosion occurred during work carried out by an employee of a metallurgical company engaged in metal casting. The explosion was likely triggered when cutting a pipe, which led to various injuries, including the fatal one to the mentioned employee. The other injured worker was also taken to the hospital.

A criminal case has been initiated based on part 2 of Article 157 of the Criminal Code of Armenia. During the preliminary investigation, the scene was examined, during which two separate pieces of iron pipe connected by special technical means were found and seized, with a white powdery substance inside the pipe.

Information has been received suggesting that the employee’s death may be attributed to the explosion occurring during the cutting of the aforementioned pipe.

To clarify circumstances significant to the investigation, a forensic explosion technical, forensic traceological, and forensic medical complex examination has been appointed, and several individuals have been interrogated. An order has been given for operational investigative measures to be conducted by the investigative body. The preliminary investigation continues, and urgent measures are being taken to determine the causes of the explosion and ensure an objective and comprehensive examination.