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A harrowing incident unfolded in Kyiv on Saturday when a gunman, identified as a Russian national, was killed by special forces after a deadly shooting spree in a supermarket. The attack resulted in the deaths of six individuals and left 14 others injured, including a 12-year-old boy.
The shooter, a 58-year-old man with a long-term residence in the Donetsk region, was originally from Moscow, as confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko.
The armed man took at least four hostages, tragically killing one of them. He also fatally shot four more people on the streets, according to President Zelenskyy. Another victim, a woman, succumbed to her injuries later at the hospital.
Graphic footage captured by bystanders showed the assailant firing at close range at a victim on the street, with other bodies visible on the pavement and in nearby courtyards.
The gunman was also recorded walking down the street, weapon in hand, during the terrifying event.
Ukranian special forces stormed the convenience store after 40 minutes of failed negotiations, according to Klymenko.
At least fourteen people were wounded in the attack, though officials cautioned the number may rise as people continue to seek medical assistance.
Among the injured is a 12‑year‑old boy and a supermarket security guard, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
The gunman was pictured dead in the convenience store. (Obtained by Will Stewart)
Zelenskyy said the shooter also set fire to an apartment prior to the attack, though it is unclear if any injuries resulted from the arson.
“My condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims,” Zelenskyy wrote in an X post. “…We wish all the wounded a swift recovery.”
The gunman had previously been prosecuted for criminal offenses, but held a valid weapons permit, according to authorities. Investigators from the National Police and the Security Service of Ukraine are investigating.
The gunman was seen holding and shooting a weapon in the street. (Obtained by Will Stewart)
Ukraine’s security service labeled the attack an act of terrorism.
“All available information about him and the motives behind his actions is being thoroughly investigated,” Zelenskyy said. “Every detail must be verified.”
One of the shooter’s neighbors, Hanna Kulyk, 75, described him as an “educated, refined man,” who lived alone and did not socialize often.
“You’d never guess he was some kind of criminal,” Kulyk told The Associated Press.