Kyiv Taxi Driver Assaults Passenger Tonia Matviyenko: Police File Charges
A recent incident in Kyiv has brought to light another case of violence and conflict within the urban taxi service, drawing public and law enforcement attention. Authorities have officially announced suspicion against a 63-year-old taxi driver involved in an altercation with renowned Ukrainian singer Tonia Matviyenko. According to the investigation, during a ride booked through a popular service—specifically Bolt, as she stated on social media—the conflict escalated into physical violence. Sources report that the incident began with an argument between the passenger and the driver when the latter refused to comply with her request to close the window due to the heat. The singer asked to stop the vehicle, as she no longer wished to continue the ride, but her request was ignored. Upon exiting the car, Tonia Matviyenko intended to end the trip, but the driver chased her and struck her twice—once in the face and once on the shoulder—causing her physical injuries. Law enforcement quickly identified the attacker, a Kyiv resident aged 63, who has been working in the taxi sector for the past five years. He explained that he refused to close the window because of the heat and justified his actions by saying that the passenger repeatedly slammed the door and could damage the rented vehicle. The man expressed remorse for his behavior and currently feels regretful. He has been charged under Article 125, Part 1 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, for intentional minor bodily harm. This incident follows a social media post by actress Tonia Matviyenko, in which she described her experience during a Bolt ride where the driver behaved aggressively, ignoring her requests and speaking inappropriately. According to her account, she had to open the door mid-ride when the driver refused to stop. After the vehicle was stopped, she got out and slammed the door, but the driver chased her and delivered blows to her head and shoulder, resulting in physical discomfort and a medical examination.