Detention Extension Granted in Case Involving Andrei Kolenko
A court in the Leninsky district of Saint Petersburg has extended the detention of Andrei Kolenko for an additional 72 hours. He is charged under Part 1 of Article 264 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. The joint press service of the city courts confirms that investigators are seeking to keep him in custody while the investigation continues.
The filing for the extension was submitted by the prosecutor. The stated purpose is to provide the court with more evidence demonstrating why a preventive measure in the form of detention remains necessary. The court is evaluating these materials as part of the ongoing inquiry.
According to law enforcement, the incident occurred on March 24 when Kolenko, driving a Dodge RAM 1500, was traveling along Lermontovsky Prospect at a speed of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour. The vehicle allegedly crossed a non-signalized pedestrian crossing and struck two 11-year-old schoolchildren who were near the crossing. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, and the injured children were taken to a hospital with injuries described as moderate in severity.
Reports indicate that the driver has a considerable prior record for administrative incidents. In 2022 and 2023, he was brought to administrative responsibility on 89 separate occasions. This history is part of the broader context considered by investigators as they assess the case and the appropriateness of continuing detention while the charges are pursued.
In a separate development within Saint Petersburg, there was mention of another incident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. Details of that case were reported separately and remain under investigation by the local authorities as part of ongoing traffic safety monitoring in the city.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities emphasize that the detention extension is a procedural measure intended to ensure a thorough investigation and the collection of additional evidence. The court will review the materials presented by the prosecution and defense, apply relevant legal standards, and determine the appropriate course of action regarding Kolenko’s custody as the case proceeds toward further judicial consideration. The outcome will hinge on the strength of the evidence, the seriousness of the alleged offense, and the potential risk posed to public safety if the defendant were released before the investigation concludes. The public can expect further updates as new information becomes available and official statements are issued by the courts and law enforcement agencies.