Investigation Reveals Findings on Explosion at Yerevan State University

As reported by the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia, on November 17, 2023, an explosion and fire occurred in the basement of the Faculty of Chemistry located on Alek Manukyan Street in Yerevan, resulting in injuries to several individuals. Following the incident, a criminal case was initiated under Article 355, Part 2 and Article 357, Part 2 of the RA Criminal Code.

During the investigation, it was established that the operational group and the personnel from the 911 service who arrived at the scene found the burned body of a man during firefighting operations. It was determined that the deceased was 73-year-old J.H., an employee of the mentioned educational institution residing in Yerevan.

A police officer suffering from smoke inhalation was hospitalized, while two other individuals—aged 70 and 66, also employees of YSU—were transported to the Burn Center with diagnoses of “polytrauma” and “chemical burns.” Both the deceased and those requiring medical assistance have been recognized as victims in the criminal proceedings. According to reports from Armenia’s healthcare institutions, the condition of the two affected YSU employees is assessed as extremely serious and serious, preventing them from participating in any investigative and evidential actions.

The police officer with smoke inhalation has been discharged from the hospital after receiving appropriate medical treatment.

During the investigation, the scene was examined, revealing that the source of the explosion was located in a staff locker area in the basement of the YSU Faculty of Chemistry. Inspections at the scene uncovered and collected samples of burned clothing, blood-like materials, and ash residues. Footage from surveillance cameras present at the scene has been confiscated.

A series of forensic examinations has been ordered, including those related to the deceased and explosion technology. Additionally, relevant instructions have been issued to clarify essential circumstances regarding the case.

The investigation is actively ongoing by a specially formed investigative group, with all necessary measures being taken to fully ascertain the cause of the explosion and surrounding circumstances in order to provide legal assessments. After obtaining confirmed factual data, the Investigative Committee of Armenia will provide the necessary information.

Previously, it was reported that a fire had broken out in one of the basement rooms of the first building of YSU, which was followed by an explosion. The Ministry of Health has confirmed that there is a fatality and injuries as a result of the explosion.