Paramedic and first responder killed in Russian ballistic rocket attack on Odesa

Russian forces launched a missile strike Friday, March 15, on Ukraine's southern city of Odesa. 

The attack killed a paramedic and an emergency services worker, according to the head of the regional military administration, Oleh Kiper, Rubryka reports.

An air raid alert was declared in the region at 11:01. A powerful explosion occurred in Odesa at 11:04, after which the Air Force reported a missile heading toward the city. Subsequently, another explosion was heard in the city.

Emergency services arrived to provide assistance to the victims after the initial strike and explosion when Russian forces inflicted another rocket attack on the scene. 

Some medical and rescue workers are severely wounded. The exact number of casualties is being clarified, and everyone is receiving necessary medical assistance, Kiper added.

The city authorities reported that educational institutions had informed that all children who were in schools and kindergartens at the time of the attack were safe.

Russian forces have recently been targeting specific areas in the Odessa region with tactical aviation aircraft. Over the past week, Russians have launched several missiles from aircraft in the Black Sea area. Often, enemy missiles either did not reach their target or were destroyed en route.

Military officials stressed that Russian continues the tactic of targeted missile strikes to test and gather intelligence on Ukraine's air defense.