Investigation Launched After Kyiv Shooting and Police Response

On April 18, 2026, a mass shooting occurred in Kyiv's Holosiivskyi district, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and injuries to 14 others, including a child. The assailant, a 58-year-old man originally from Moscow, opened fire in a supermarket and took hostages before being killed by police during an arrest attempt. The incident has been classified as a terrorist act, although the motive remains under investigation.

Two patrol officers suspended as National Police probe their actions during Kyiv terrorist attack

Following the shooting, a video surfaced showing two police officers fleeing the scene as gunfire erupted. This footage prompted Ukraine's Interior Minister, Ihor Klymenko, to suspend the officers and label their actions as "shameful" and a "disgrace for the entire system." Klymenko emphasized that the behavior of these two officers should not be generalized to the entire police force. An internal investigation into their conduct has been initiated, with the findings to be forwarded to the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).

Klymenko called the actions of some police officers during the terrorist attack in Kyiv "shameful" and announced personnel decisionsTwo Ukrainian police officers suspended after fleeing Kyiv shooting sceneRTE (Radio Television of Ireland)EuronewsKyiv IndependentThe Straits TimesPolice Fled — KORD Eliminated: What Is Being Investigated After the Terror Attack in KyivAfter the shooting in kyiv, two police officers suspended following the broadcast of a video showing them fleeing the scene on social networks

In the wake of the incident, Yevhen Zhukov, head of Ukraine's patrol police, resigned, stating that it was a fair decision given the circumstances. He condemned the actions of the officers involved, asserting that they failed to act professionally during a critical moment when lives were at stake. The resignation reflects a broader accountability effort within the police force, as Klymenko and other officials have called for a thorough review of police protocols and training.

Kyiv IndependentEuronewsKlymenko called the actions of some police officers during the terrorist attack in Kyiv "shameful" and announced personnel decisionsTwo patrol officers suspended as National Police probe their actions during Kyiv terrorist attackAfter the shooting in kyiv, two police officers suspended following the broadcast of a video showing them fleeing the scene on social networksBBC NewsThe Straits TimesRTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

Interior Minister Klymenko has called for expert discussions involving parliament members, journalists, and the public to address gun control laws in Ukraine. He noted that the shooter had legally registered his firearm and that the investigation would examine how he obtained the necessary medical certificates to renew his gun permit. Klymenko stated, "I believe that people should have the right to armed self-defense," while also asserting that there would be no mass checks of gun owners following the shooting.

RTE (Radio Television of Ireland)

Critics have raised concerns about the police's preparedness and response to active threats, particularly in a country facing ongoing security challenges due to the war with Russia. The incident has sparked discussions about the effectiveness of police training and the need for systemic reforms to ensure public safety during emergencies.

Two patrol officers suspended as National Police probe their actions during Kyiv terrorist attack

While the shooting has been classified as a terrorist act, the exact motive of the shooter remains unclear. Some reports suggest that the assailant exhibited signs of mental instability, yet further details about his background and motivations are still being investigated. Additionally, discrepancies exist regarding the number of casualties, with some sources reporting varying figures for the injured.

After the shooting in kyiv, two police officers suspended following the broadcast of a video showing them fleeing the scene on social networks

The ongoing investigations by the SBI and internal police inquiries aim to clarify the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the officers' actions. The results of these investigations are expected to be made public soon, as authorities seek to enhance accountability within law enforcement and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Two patrol officers suspended as National Police probe their actions during Kyiv terrorist attack