A Blagoveshchensk resident named Evgeny Bakaryukin was identified as the driver responsible for a devastating crash that left several pedestrians injured and others dead. The car involved, a Suzuki Solio, had been registered to him for less than a month, with ownership recorded on May 22 of this year. In the weeks following the purchase, there were no reported incidents and no penalties attributed to him before the crash, according to sources familiar with the matter.
On June 14, a Telegram channel called “Blagoveshchensk No. 1” published footage showing a burgundy minivan racing onto a sidewalk and striking a crowd of pedestrians, which included children. The impact delivered a forceful blow that sent victims sprawling and drew immediate concern from bystanders. The video quickly circulated online, prompting discussions about road safety and the circumstances surrounding the driver’s actions during the event.
Subsequent reports identified the driver as 59-year-old Evgeniy Bakaryukin. In the images captured after the collision, Bakaryukin is seen lying on the pavement with visible facial injuries while bystanders gathered nearby. Those present reportedly called him by a nickname and urged him to remain still as emergency responders moved in to assist. The scene underscored the shock and confusion that often accompany large-scale urban crashes and the importance of rapid, coordinated medical response.
According to a statement from the regional health ministry, three people lost their lives as a result of the crash, including two children. Four additional individuals sustained injuries of varying severity. Local authorities confirmed that the driver was detained for questioning and that the incident has triggered a criminal investigation. The governor of the Amur region, Vasily Orlov, provided updates indicating that alcohol impairment was suspected in the crash, though those findings would be clarified through official tests and ongoing investigations.
The broader response to the incident focused on the need for accountability and safety reforms to prevent similar tragedies. Officials emphasized the importance of rigorous enforcement of traffic laws, thorough medical evaluations after crashes, and secure handling of witnesses and victims in the aftermath. The event has led to renewed public discussion about road design, pedestrian protection, and the training of drivers to recognize dangerous situations before they escalate.
Observers also drew comparisons with other high-profile crashes involving public transportation and private vehicles, noting how communities react when a vehicle impact occurs in a crowded area. The timeline of events, from the vehicle’s purchase to the fatal crash, has been a focal point for investigators who are examining factors such as the driver’s history, vehicle condition, and the sequence of actions preceding the collision. In the days following the incident, residents and officials alike reiterated calls for calm, factual reporting, and careful verification of details as information continues to emerge through official channels.