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Ukrainian soldier arrested after killing 5 in shooting rampage
Local authorities have arrested a Ukrainian National Guard soldier, identified as Artem Ryabchuk, for opening fire on a group of security guards, killing 5 and injuring another 5.
A disturbing video shows the soldier gunning down his colleagues in narrow hallways, at point blank range.
Ukrainian police detaining Ryabchuk (Photo courtesy of the Ukrainian interior ministry press handout)
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The incident occurred at missile factory in central Ukraine. The reasoning behind the attack is still unknown, but officials have promised a full investigation. Deputy interior minister Anton Gerashchenko would not speculate about a possible motive. Stating, “First of all, the question of whether the serviceman faced psychological pressure in (his) team will be studied.”
The 21-year-old soldier began firing with his issued kalashnikov style rifle. The exact amount of rounds fired has not been reported, but officials stated the standard issue carried is around 200 rounds. CCTV shows Ryabchuk raiding an ammo locker, before continuing his rampage.
There were no reports of fire being returned, particularly as the event occurred while security forces were being issued their weapons for duty.
Before being captured, Ryabchuk fled the Pivdenmash missile factory, located in the city of Dnipro. However, police were able to identify his location, and he was quickly detained.
Interior Minister Denys Monastyrskiy said Ryabchuk would “bear the strictest responsibility provided by law.”
Ukrainian officials have reported the deceased included 4 male security guards and one female civilian. The attack occurred as tensions with Russia continue to rise.
