At least eight people were killed and dozens more injured when an explosion ripped through an Asian market in Moscow. Security officials say the incident is likely the result of a commercial dispute in a city where such incidents are not uncommon.
The blast ripped through a two-story market in eastern Moscow, which was packed with traders and shoppers on a busy Monday morning.
The Eurasia market is known for its many traders of Chinese and Vietnamese origin, who mostly sell clothes and household goods in a crowded warren of small kiosks.
The force of the blast tore off a large section of the roof.
This eyewitness says the roof suddenly "flew away," and that hundreds of people fled in panic, after hearing the huge noise of the explosion.
Security officials said it appeared some kind of homemade explosive device exploded, and in turn caused a gas container to blow up.
Officials suspect some kind of commercial dispute. Several similar incidents have occurred at Moscow markets before.
A suspicious fire occurred at the same Eurasia market a year ago.
After visiting the scene, Moscow city prosecutor Yury Semin said he is also working on the theory that the blast resulted from some kind of commercial competition or dispute between criminal groups.
Authorities do not believe the blast was a terrorist act, although they say an investigation is still underway.
Witnesses to Monday's blast say they are aware there is danger at the Eurasia market, but that they will continue to shop there, as it is known for its bargain prices on many goods.