Kyiv Supermarket Attack
On April 18, 2026, a terrorist attack in Kyiv resulted in six fatalities and dozens of injuries. The shooter, a 58-year-old native of Moscow, opened fire in the Holosiivskyi district before barricading himself inside a Velmart supermarket and taking hostages. A fire also broke out in the attacker's registered apartment during the incident.
The Kyiv city prosecutor arrived at the scene. The KORD special forces unit conducted an assault, during which the gunman was neutralized. Five people died at the scene, while a woman, who was among the 10 hospitalized, later succumbed to her injuries. The woman, approximately 30 years old, has yet to be formally identified. In total, 10 people were taken to hospitals with injuries, and a further six victims received on-site medical aid and did not require hospitalization.
Investigation and Aftermath
The National Police has launched an internal investigation into the actions of police officers during the attack, resulting in the suspension of two officers pending review. The Velmart supermarket will remain closed until April 27. The area around the store is cordoned off with police tape.
Journalists captured footage from inside the burned-out apartment where the attacker was registered. The terrorist's residence was almost entirely destroyed by fire, with only a few documents surviving. People have been laying flowers outside the Velmart supermarket to honor the memory of the victims.
"A woman who was among the 10 hospitalized victims injured by the shooter has also died in the hospital. Her identity is being established; the woman was approximately 30 years old," stated Vitali Klitschko.
This attack stands as one of the deadliest incidents in Kyiv in recent years, provoking a strong public and official response. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the causes and circumstances of the tragedy, further highlighting the need for enhanced security measures in public spaces. The event has heightened societal concerns over terrorism and violence, as well as demands for more effective police responses to such crises in the future. The attack underscores the persistent security challenges faced by Ukraine, even as it continues to defend its sovereignty.
In light of this tragic event, it is important to consider the broader implications of security measures in urban areas. Similar incidents have raised concerns about public safety and law enforcement responses. For a detailed account of another recent attack in Kyiv that resulted in multiple casualties, you can read more about it here.