Three people, including a 13-year-old, were injured after a deliberate explosion struck a residential building in Monaco on Monday evening, prompting a major police investigation into the suspected attack.
According to authorities, the blast occurred at around 9 p.m. local time in an apartment building located along the border with France. Officials said the explosion was intentionally caused, although investigators have not yet determined the motive.
A source familiar with the investigation told AFP that one of the injured is influential Ukrainian businessman Vadym Yermolaiev.
Monaco's Minister of State, Christophe Mirmand, initially described the incident as an attack before later clarifying that it was a deliberate explosion. French police are assisting the investigation and are searching for the suspect, who fled the scene.
Prosecutor Stéphane Thibault said the suspect left a bag or package in the building's entrance hall before leaving. Authorities have not identified any reason why the building was targeted.
Two adults, believed to be a couple in their 50s or 60s, suffered critical injuries, while a 13-year-old, believed to be a relative, sustained less serious injuries. Officials have not disclosed the victims' nationalities.
Investigators believe the explosive device was packed with screws and metal pellets designed to maximize injuries. Mirmand described the incident as unprecedented, saying it was the first attack of its kind in Monaco's history. Prosecutors are expected to provide further details during a press briefing on Tuesday.
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