A criminal case has been opened in Pervouralsk, Sverdlovsk region, after a disturbing incident involving a man who used an axe on an injured deer. The event reportedly occurred at EKAD in September 2022, and authorities are still pursuing the person responsible.
Witnesses say a deer suddenly burst onto the roadway from the forest, and the vehicle could not avoid the animal. After the collision, one bystander exited a VAZ-2104 and attempted to end the deer’s suffering by striking it with an axe. Several other onlookers recorded portions of the incident on their mobile phones, capturing images and video as the moment unfolded.
The deer died at the scene, and law enforcement launched an investigation to identify the perpetrator. At this stage, officials have not disclosed the suspect’s identity, and updates from authorities remain pending.
Officials stated that an investigation is ongoing and that those shown in the video footage are being examined and identified as part of the inquiry. The case has been classified under Part 1 of Article 245, which addresses cruelty to animals. If convicted, the individual could face a sentence of up to three years in prison.
Meanwhile, there is additional context coming from regional law enforcement sources that underscores the seriousness with which animal welfare violations are treated and the steps investigators routinely take in such cases. The incident is being reviewed to determine intent, whether the actions were reckless or deliberate, and how best to apply existing statutes to protect wildlife and humane standards in everyday life. This case serves as a reminder that authorities monitor and respond to animal cruelty with scrutiny, aiming to hold offenders accountable and to deter similar behavior in the future [Source: regional police statements].
Experts stress that animal welfare laws exist to safeguard wildlife and to ensure that any actions involving injured animals are handled with care and within legal boundaries. In communities across Russia, as in many countries, authorities emphasize prompt reporting, thorough documentation, and orderly investigations to establish facts and prevent further harm. The ongoing inquiry in Pervouralsk reflects a broader commitment to enforcing humane treatment of animals and upholding the rule of law in everyday incidents [Citation: law enforcement briefing].
Observers note that the public’s involvement—documenting events and reporting them to authorities—plays a critical role in swift and fair resolution. As investigations progress, prosecutors may seek appropriate charges aligned with the evidence, aiming to ensure proper accountability while protecting animal welfare and public safety in the Sverdlovsk region and beyond.