Arson probe launched after major fire at Yerevan trade center

Armenian law enforcement authorities have opened a criminal case on suspicion of arson following a major fire at the Yerevan City Trade Center on Yerevan’s Komitas Avenue on Thursday.

The Investigative Committee said the case was initiated under Article 264, Part 2, Clause 2 of the Criminal Code, relating to the destruction or damage of property through arson, explosion, or other dangerous means.

Expert examinations, including fire-technical and materials analyses, have been ordered as part of the ongoing investigation.

The fire started on the roof of the building, reportedly at a KFC fast-food outlet, and escalated to a Level 3 emergency. Fourteen fire and rescue crews were dispatched to the scene, and managed to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent areas, including a nearby petrol station.