Kyiv Shooting: Gunman Killed by Police After Killing Six, Taking Hostages

Kyiv, Ukraine (April 18, 2026) — A deadly shooting rampage in Kyiv ended after police shot and killed a gunman who had taken hostages inside a supermarket, authorities confirmed.

Officials say the attacker killed at least six people and injured several others before barricading himself inside the store in the city’s Holosiivskyi district. The suspect opened fire on civilians in the street before fleeing into the building, sparking a major emergency response.

According to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, special tactical police units surrounded the location and attempted negotiations for approximately 40 minutes. Despite efforts to de-escalate the situation and offer medical aid to possible victims inside, the gunman refused to cooperate and reportedly fired at officers.

Authorities were ultimately forced to storm the building and “neutralize” the attacker. Four hostages were safely rescued during the operation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that at least 10 people were hospitalized following the attack, including one child. He also extended condolences to the victims’ families and called for a swift and transparent investigation.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the suspect had carried out the shooting in a public area before retreating into the supermarket, heightening panic in the district.

Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko identified the attacker as a 58-year-old man originally from Moscow. Officials noted that he possessed a legally registered firearm and had recently renewed his weapons permit in late 2025, raising questions about the screening process.

Investigators are continuing to examine the motive behind the attack, which remains unclear.

Courtesy: aljazeera