Bulgarian Ammunition Depot Explosion Near Tsaritsa Livada

A major explosion occurred at an ammunition storage facility in the Tsaritsa Livada area of central Bulgaria, according to local media reports. The site is operated by EMKO, a company specializing in the manufacture and trade of weapons and ammunition.

The fire broke out at approximately 11:20 p.m. on Friday at the depot located near the village of Gorni Vabreshta, situated between the towns of Tryavna and Tsaritsa Livada. A series of subsequent explosions followed, with flames and thick smoke observed from considerable distances.

An EMKO official confirmed the facility stored ammunition and gunpowder, adding that there was no danger to employees. Local authorities stated that, in the first hours after the incident, no fatalities or injuries had been reported.

Emergency Response Measures

Authorities immediately closed the road leading to the area and established a security cordon around the fire site. Three firefighting teams were deployed to monitor the situation and manage the aftermath of the explosions. Reports indicated the nearest residential settlement lies more than one kilometer from the depot.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the fire and subsequent explosions remains unknown. Bulgarian authorities have not yet disclosed the extent of damage or the quantity of ammunition stored at the site. An official investigation has been launched.

Ukraine issued a statement regarding the incident, referencing an explosion involving a drone in Bulgaria.