At least three people were killed and 15 others injured after a powerful explosion struck near a restaurant in central Moscow on Saturday evening, prompting an extensive emergency response and an official investigation into the cause of the blast.

According to Moscow police, the explosion occurred at approximately 8:10 p.m. local time near an outdoor summer café area. The victims sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe, and emergency medical teams rushed the wounded to nearby hospitals for treatment.

"An explosion occurred today at around 8:10 p.m. near a summer café, resulting in three fatalities and 15 people injured with varying degrees of severity," police said in a statement carried by the state-run RIA Novosti news agency.

Investigators, forensic specialists, firefighters, and emergency responders quickly cordoned off the area as authorities began examining the scene to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

Videos and photographs shared on Russian social media and Telegram channels showed multiple fire engines, ambulances, and police vehicles surrounding the site while rescue personnel searched the damaged premises.

Russian media outlet Baza, which is known for its close contacts within Russian law enforcement agencies, reported that preliminary information suggests the explosion was caused by a gas leak in the kitchen of the upscale Balzi Rossi Italian Restaurant, located in Moscow's city center.

The blast reportedly damaged part of the restaurant and the adjacent outdoor dining area, although officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause.

The restaurant's website indicated that the venue had been closed to the public on Saturday due to a privately organized event taking place inside the premises when the explosion occurred.

Russia's Investigative Committee has opened a criminal investigation into the incident to determine whether the explosion resulted from negligence, a technical malfunction, or another cause.

Investigators are examining gas supply systems, interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance camera footage, and conducting forensic examinations of the damaged building.

Officials have urged the public to refrain from speculation until the investigation is completed, noting that no evidence of foul play has been officially confirmed.

Firefighters quickly brought the resulting blaze under control, preventing the flames from spreading to neighboring buildings in the densely populated district.

Emergency crews remained at the scene for several hours to stabilize the damaged structure and ensure there was no further risk of collapse or secondary explosions.

Authorities have not ruled out additional inspections of nearby gas infrastructure as a precaution.

The identities of the victims have not yet been officially released, pending notification of their families.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities expected to provide further updates once forensic experts complete their examination of the explosion site. (ILKHA)