Six Killed, Eight Injured in Explosion at U Kojota Restaurant in Most, Czech Republic

Jan 12, 2025, 07:40 AM

An explosion and subsequent fire at the U Kojota restaurant in the Czech city of Most, also known as Brüx, resulted in the deaths of six people and injuries to eight others, who were hospitalized. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday in the center of the industrial city, located about 60 kilometers south of Dresden. According to eyewitness accounts, the explosion was caused by a toppled gas heater, which led to the ignition of a propane-butane gas cylinder. The fire spread rapidly, engulfing the restaurant and prompting the evacuation of approximately 30 people from the restaurant and adjacent buildings. The Czech Interior Minister, Vit Rakusan, confirmed he was in close contact with the fire department and police. The restaurant was completely destroyed by the fire, with flames reported to be two to three meters high. A structural engineer is now assessing whether the building needs to be demolished. Police have initiated an investigation into the incident for potential endangerment of the public.