In the heart of Kyiv—a loud incident shook the capital during the night of May 16
A bizarre and quite alarming event took place at the city’s main square when sounds of gunfire rang out at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, and police specialists reported the use of firearms by law enforcement officers following a chase after a suspicious vehicle. According to information received from Kyiv patrol police representatives, the observation service noticed an Audi car moving through the city during curfew—an unauthorized time for citizen movement. The driver was stopped for a document check. However, during the inspection, it became clear that the man’s documents were suspicious—he was wanted under Article 210 of the Administrative Code of Ukraine, relating to violations of traffic rules or violations of procedures during administrative proceedings. The police immediately summoned the man to the Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (RTCK), to clarify all circumstances of his violation and possible involvement in other offenses. At the same time, as it turned out, the situation quickly escalated: the Audi driver became aggressive, behaved unpredictably, and sharply violated police instructions—for this reason, he suddenly sped off, hitting one of the law enforcement officers, as witnessed by bystanders. Following a report from the patrol officers, the police stated that, in accordance with Article 46, Part 7 of the Law of Ukraine "On the National Police," the inspector was forced to use service firearms to stop the vehicle and prevent further danger. According to official information, despite the shots fired, the vehicle did not stop—its driver continued attempts to escape. Fortunately, medical personnel and law enforcement officials report that no one involved in the incident suffered serious injuries. The injured police officer sought medical assistance and is now doing well. The search for the offender is ongoing, and law enforcement efforts are also focused on finding and retrieving the vehicle, which was abandoned or disappeared from the scene. Investigators have already begun their inquiry to establish all circumstances of the incident—witness testimonies are being taken, evidence collected, and necessary investigative actions are being carried out. This incident once again underscores the importance of increasing control over law and order and safety in the city center, especially during curfew hours. The police emphasize that the use of firearms is a last resort, and the offender who violated the rules and hit a police officer has received the necessary consequences and, it is hoped, will be held accountable. Meanwhile, Kyiv is anxiously monitoring the developments and trying to return to peaceful life after the nighttime incident of violence and noise. All circumstances are still being clarified, and the police promise to inform the public about the results of the investigation.