Death of Kryvyi Rih Mayor: Investigators Dismiss Murder Theory, 16 Searches Conducted in One Day, Including Vilkul's

However, police do not rule out that he was driven to suicide.

The investigation into the death of Kryvyi Rih Mayor Kostiantyn Pavlov has dismissed the murder theory, and 16 searches were conducted in one day.

We gathered the latest information on how the investigation into Pavlov's death is progressing.

Murder Theory Ruled Out

Investigators have dismissed the theory of Pavlov's deliberate murder, but do not rule out the theory that he was driven to suicide.

Mykola Batiuk

Deputy Head of the Main Investigative Department of the National Police

The Main Investigative Department, based on data obtained from the pre-trial investigation, forensic examinations, witness testimony, and data obtained during an investigative experiment, has refuted the theory that Pavlov was deliberately murdered and his suicide staged. Currently, the main versions are suicide, committed for reasons related to the mayor's personal life and his position. Investigators do not rule out the theory that he was driven to suicide, given his position and lifestyle.

Batiuk also said that a total of 180 people were interviewed during the investigation.

Earlier, investigators were working on three theories: deliberate murder, careless handling of a firearm, and suicide. The mayor's house had four surveillance cameras, one of which was located directly in the hall where Pavlov's body was found.

After reviewing footage from these cameras, it was established that there were no outsiders in the house. Police also found no signs of editing in the recordings.

In addition, law enforcement officers conducted an investigative experiment. It indicates that death occurred after a single shot fired from close range. An examination also confirmed that there are gunshot residues on Pavlov's clothing and body. No narcotic substances were found in his blood.

16 Searches in One Day

During the day on September 7, 16 searches were conducted in the case of Pavlov's death.

Mykola Batiuk
Deputy Head of the Main Investigative Department of the National Police

Sixteen searches were carried out today. Searches were also conducted earlier. However, searches are one of the ways of obtaining evidence, so this may not be the last.

Meanwhile, sources in law enforcement agencies told several media outlets that searches were also conducted at the premises of acting Kryvyi Rih Mayor Yurii Vilkul and his son Oleksandr. 

At the same time, investigators cannot publicly say whose premises were searched, as they are not allowed to disclose the parties involved in the proceedings. 

The police also said that in parallel, an audit is underway at the Kryvyi Rih City Council, which began while Pavlov was still alive. It concerns possible abuses by the authorities.

Although officials are obstructing this audit, there may be grounds to believe that abuses did indeed take place. The audit is now in its final stage, and the results are promised to be published soon.