Russian investigators open criminal case after Lysychansk attack

Russia's Investigative Committee said on Oct. 11 that it had opened a criminal case following a drone attack on civilian sites in Ukraine's Luhansk region.

Spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko said the Main Investigative Directorate was investigating murder, attempted murder and intentional destruction of property. The case cites Articles 105, 30 and 167 of Russia's Criminal Code.

Investigators allege that Ukrainian formations struck civilian sites with drones overnight into Oct. 11. The committee reported destruction in Lysychansk's residential area and deaths and injuries among residents.

Leonid Pasechnik, head of the Russian-controlled administration, earlier reported two deaths and ten injuries in the attack on the city. Those figures are attributed to the local authorities and have not been independently confirmed.

Petrenko said investigators and forensic specialists were collecting evidence and identifying units and individuals they believe were involved. Opening a criminal case does not constitute a judicial determination of responsibility for the attack.