The chairperson and secretary of the Regional Election Commission in Blagoevgrad were injured when an elevator malfunctioned during their ascent to a scheduled press briefing, according to local reports.
The incident occurred as the two officials were en route to what was to be the commission’s first press conference following recent electoral preparations. Eyewitness accounts indicate the elevator suddenly stopped between floors, resulting in one of the officials sustaining injuries requiring medical attention.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the malfunction was reported. Even as the extent of the injuries has not been officially detailed, sources confirmed that one individual was transported for evaluation, while the other declined immediate medical care but remained under observation.
As a direct result of the incident, the planned press briefing was canceled. Officials from the Blagoevgrad Regional Election Commission stated that the event would be rescheduled once safety concerns regarding the building’s elevator system are addressed and both officials are able to participate.
The elevator involved in the incident is located in a municipal building frequently used for administrative and civic gatherings. No further details about the mechanical cause of the failure have been released, though authorities have indicated that an investigation into the malfunction is underway.
The disruption marks an unusual delay in the commission’s public outreach efforts, which had been anticipated as part of ongoing transparency initiatives ahead of upcoming electoral processes.
