Explosion in apartment in Helsinki leaves two hospitalized as police investigate attempted murder

Monday 26th August 2024 on 12:33 in Finland

Two individuals have been hospitalized following an explosion in an apartment in Helsinki. The explosion occurred in Meri-Rastila at approximately 4:20 AM, waking neighbors with a loud bang. The police are now investigating the incident as an attempted murder.

Emergency services received notification of the explosion around 4:30 AM. Upon arrival, they discovered that a blast in a private residence had resulted in injuries to two people, who have since been transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities suspect that the explosion was deliberately caused.

A man born in 1980, who is one of the injured, is being investigated as a suspect. According to police, the explosion was likely caused by explosives that the individual possessed illegally. Current information suggests that the other injured party was the man’s sole intended target.

“This type of case carries a significant risk of much more serious consequences,” stated police commissioner Tuomas Lindholm in a press release.

During the operation, police cordoned off the surrounding area, restricted access for residents, and evacuated some occupants. Authorities reported that no other individuals were injured in the explosion, and the primary material damage was confined to the apartment where the incident occurred.

On Monday, police implemented safety measures in and around the incident site, indicating that there is no longer a threat to the public. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on attempted murder and explosives offenses, with further updates to be provided as the investigation progresses.

Source 
(via yle.fi)