Traffic police in Moscow provided new details about the capture of a suspect linked to the death of skateboarder Andrei Demin. The information came through an interview published on the Telegram channel 112, offering a clearer timeline of events as observed by officers on the ground.
Officials explain that the suspect attempted to escape when signaled to stop. He allegedly accelerated away and headed toward a playground where families and children were present. In a tense and chaotic moment, an exchange of gunfire occurred, with the assailant firing an estimated 10 to 15 shots from the location. Officers shouted for bystanders to seek cover and guided children away from danger while they engaged the suspect around the area. The confrontation intensified as shots were directed at law enforcement personnel, prompting a high-stakes response from the responding officers.
The pursuit concluded near a wooded area. The suspect reportedly concealed himself behind a tree, adopting a defensive stance and preparing to fire again. Traffic police described that the situation allowed for no alternative but to return fire, resulting in the suspect being shot and taken into custody at the scene rather than surrendering. The encounter ended with the suspect incapacitated, and a later check of the surrounding area revealed additional gear and supplies that suggested a prepared and planned operation.
On June 6, Moscow authorities reported a fatal incident connected to the same or a closely related case. Local media noted that the assailant pursued and fired upon a victim with an AKS-74U, before fleeing. The deceased was identified as Konstantin Balishansky, a 34-year-old skater who had previously been associated with the NikeSB program. Balishansky was said to have known the person suspected of the crime, a 35-year-old man named Andrei Demin, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation.
According to official updates, the alleged murderer was apprehended roughly two and a half hours after the initial arrest was made. During the confrontation, the suspect reportedly fired at the traffic police at least 15 times and sustained a head injury in the process. Investigators found the suspect in possession of a customized AKS-74U named Ksyukha, along with magazines, a military knife, a map of the area, protective goggles, binoculars, camouflage uniforms, a packed lunch, and water. The quantity of equipment suggested careful preparation for a prolonged confrontation and potential evasion efforts should the pursuit continue.
Earlier footage circulating online showed the skater-turned-suspect being escorted away by emergency responders in Moscow, reinforcing the dramatic nature of the events and the rapid response by authorities. The sequence of events, from the initial confrontation to the aftermath, underscores the volatility and danger faced by first responders during such incidents.
These developments are part of a broader narrative about street-level safety, officer training, and the challenges that come with high-speed pursuits. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence, the public is reminded of the importance of staying away from active crime scenes and following official directions to ensure safety. While the names and affiliations of individuals involved are reported by various outlets, the focus remains on understanding the sequence of events, the actions taken by law enforcement, and the impact on the families and communities affected by this tragedy. This account draws from reports and official briefings, and the situation continues to evolve as investigators review evidence, collect statements, and piece together the timeline for a complete, authoritative record for residents in Canada and the United States who are following the case.