A parcel bomb exploded outside a residential building in Monaco on Monday evening, leaving Ukrainian businessman Vadym Yermolaiev and two other people injured. Authorities quickly launched a large search operation after the suspect escaped across the border into France.
Officials said the explosion happened shortly before 9:00 p.m. local time in an apartment building on Rue Révérend Père Louis Frolla, close to the French border. The blast damaged the entrance of the building and shattered nearby shop windows.
Three People Hurt, Two in Critical Condition
Emergency teams rushed to the scene and treated several victims. Three people suffered injuries in the explosion, while two remain in critical condition at a hospital in Nice. Officials said a woman received the most serious injuries.
Medical crews also treated four other people. One person suffered shock, while three others received minor cuts from flying glass and debris.
Authorities Treat the Blast as Attempted Murder
Monaco’s public prosecutor, Stéphane Thibault, confirmed that investigators are treating the case as attempted murder rather than a terrorist attack.
Officials believe the explosive device was hidden inside a parcel. According to Monaco’s Minister of State, Christophe Mirmand, the device appeared to contain bolts and metal pellets, making the explosion even more dangerous.
Investigators continue to examine the blast site to determine how the explosive device was built and delivered.
Police Search for Suspect Across the French Border
Police reviewed surveillance footage from the area and identified a man believed to be connected to the attack. Investigators said the suspect left a backpack inside the building lobby shortly before the explosion.
After placing the bag, the man reportedly fled on foot toward the nearby French town of Beausoleil.
Authorities believe the suspect crossed into France within minutes. French and Monaco police have started a joint operation to locate and arrest the individual.
Ukraine Monitors the Investigation
Ukraine’s foreign ministry confirmed that its embassy in France is working closely with Monaco’s authorities. Officials are also verifying the identities and conditions of those injured in the explosion.
The investigation remains active as police continue searching for the suspect and collecting evidence from the scene. Authorities have not announced a possible motive, and no arrests have been made so far.
