A police officer in the Khortytsia district of Zaporizhzhia discharged his service weapon during an altercation with suspected robbers, resulting in the death of one individual. The incident occurred on March 16, 2026, as officers responded to a report of an assault and attempted robbery.
According to the National Police of Ukraine, the patrol unit received a call regarding a man being attacked. Upon arrival, officers encountered the victim, who identified two suspects. During the process of apprehending the suspects, one of them reportedly exhibited aggressive behavior, ignored police commands, and brandished an object resembling a firearm.
“Upon arrival, the patrol officers found the complainant who pointed out two individuals allegedly involved in the crime. As the situation unfolded, one of the men began acting aggressively, disregarding lawful orders to stop, and produced an object that appeared to be a gun, which he began to reload. Additionally, the suspect closed the distance towards the officers. The policeman retreated to a safe distance for cover, but the perpetrator followed, threatening them with the object that resembled a weapon.”
In response to the threat, the officer fired two shots. Following this, one suspect fled the scene while the other attempted to use a gas canister against the police and resisted arrest, leading to his detention with the use of handcuffs. Subsequently, the police discovered one of the suspects deceased nearby.
“After the shooting, one of the offenders fled. The other attempted to use a gas canister against the patrol officers and resisted arrest, which resulted in his detention using handcuffs. Later, police found the attacker dead nearby. Authorities confirmed his identity as a serviceman who had deserted his military unit. His accomplice is also classified as a suspect in the case.”
The State Bureau of Investigations (DBR) and an investigative group are currently examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the legality of the use of firearms by the police.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
A police officer in Zaporizhzhia shot and killed a suspect during an attempted robbery. The incident is under investigation by the State Bureau of Investigations.