The State Bureau of Investigations has initiated a probe into the crash of a Su-24M military aircraft in the Khmelnytskyi region, which resulted in the deaths of two crew members on June 16, 2026.
The incident occurred around 7:00 PM near a populated area, while the aircraft was conducting a mission under combat orders. Among the deceased, one service member was mobilized as one of the first volunteers on February 24, 2022, while the other had joined the military in 2019.
Authorities have recovered the aircraft’s black box for further analysis. Investigators are also gathering various documents, including the flight log, medical examination records of the crew, and other relevant permissions necessary for flight operations.
The investigation is being conducted under the article concerning violations of flight rules or preparation that led to the crash or other serious consequences.
Earlier reports from the Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that the crash involved a front-line bomber from the 7th Tactical Aviation Brigade named after Petro Franko. Both pilots tragically lost their lives in the incident. The military expressed condolences to the families of Major Bohdan Zaharulko and Senior Lieutenant Bohdan Babienko, who defended their country until the end.
Rescue teams and law enforcement officials are currently at the crash site. Preliminary information indicates that there were no civilian casualties.
Ukrainian military forces continue to utilize aviation both near the front lines and in the rear to intercept Russian missiles and drones during aerial attacks.
A military investigation is underway following the crash of a Su-24M bomber in Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine, which resulted in the deaths of two pilots. The incident occurred during a combat mission, and authorities are collecting evidence for a thorough inquiry.