A massive explosion from a booby-trapped backpack has rocked the wealthy principality of Monaco, leaving three members of a Ukrainian family injured — with two fighting for their lives in critical condition.

The blast occurred around 9pm local time outside a residential building on a street bordering France. According to reports, the device was deliberately placed and detonated, injuring Ukrainian businessman and oligarch Vadim Ermolaev, his wife/partner, and their 13-year-old child.

French media sources identified Ermolaev as the primary target of the suspected attack. The two adults (in their 50s and 60s) are in critical condition, while the child is reported to be stable.

Police released CCTV footage showing a suspect placing the backpack at the entrance of the building before fleeing on foot toward the French border town of Beausoleil. A manhunt is underway, with enhanced checks at the border. Monaco authorities have activated their “red plan” (mass-casualty protocol) and described the incident as a likely deliberate attack.

The backpack reportedly contained bolts and metal fragments, causing severe trauma to the victims. Blood was visible on the steps of the building following the blast.

Local residents described the explosion as extremely loud, comparing it to thunder coming from behind the mountains. Monaco’s Minister of State Christophe Mirmand and regional officials, including Nice Mayor Eric Ciotti and Charles Ange Ginésy, expressed solidarity with the victims and support for emergency services.

This is believed to be the first such terror-style attack in Monaco’s history. No group has claimed responsibility, and investigations are ongoing.

More details to follow as the manhunt continues.