The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case in connection with the mass collision that occurred on the M-11 Neva highway in the Novgorod region. This development was confirmed by the department’s Telegram channel, which is used to communicate official updates about the incident to the public and media outlets.
The case has been initiated under Article 238, Part 2, Paragraph c of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. This provision covers the execution of work or the provision of services that fail to meet established safety requirements for life and health of consumers. The notice indicates that investigators are focusing on potential safety violations connected with the event and are pursuing a thorough inquiry to determine responsibility and any contributing factors.
Officers from the Investigative Committee are currently on the scene, conducting a comprehensive assessment of the incident site. Their presence ensures that evidence is collected in a systematic manner, witnesses are identified, and all relevant data is secured to form a clear understanding of the sequence of events that led to the crash and the conditions that may have influenced it.
At approximately 526 kilometers along the M-11 highway, a severe multi-vehicle collision involved more than 50 trucks and passenger cars. The resulting injuries affected ten individuals, including two minors. Fatalities reported so far include four people, among them one child. The scale and gravity of the crash have prompted a coordinated emergency response to provide medical aid, secure the area, and manage the flow of traffic around the site to prevent further harm.
During the response, a mobile heating and welfare unit operated by the department has been deployed to support responders and those affected by the accident. Such temporary facilities play a crucial role in maintaining field operations under varying weather conditions and ensuring that personnel can work efficiently while care and safety remain priorities on site.
As a consequence of the incident, traffic toward Moscow has been halted to safeguard motorists and allow investigators to conduct a meticulous examination of the roadway and surrounding terrain. The route to Moscow via the M-10 corridor remains closed, and the detour points are being managed to reduce congestion. The exit from the St. Petersburg highway at kilometer 545 has been restricted to control the flow of vehicles through the affected region and to facilitate the ongoing investigation and recovery operations.
Earlier reports indicated that traffic on the M-4 Don highway experienced partial closures due to snowfall, complicating travel for those heading south and east. Authorities advise motorists to consult official travel advisories and to follow posted detours, as weather conditions may change and transportation services adjust accordingly. Emergency services continue to operate around the clock, delivering aid to the injured and supporting the families affected by this tragedy. The investigative process aims to establish a clear accounting of the incident, identify any preventable factors, and reinforce safety measures to prevent a recurrence.