Improper handling of explosives suspected in fatal Rivne police station blast – SBI

The explosion occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time on August 31 in the courtyard of Rivne Police Station No. 1.

“The department's deputy chief was killed in the blast,” the bureau reported. “A department head, another deputy, and a division inspector also sustained severe injuries and are currently hospitalized.”

According to preliminary data, the blast may have occurred due to improper handling or storage of explosive materials.

The SBI stated that forensic teams have finished processing the scene, seizing debris and official documentation. Investigators are currently interviewing witnesses and have ordered several forensic examinations.

The case has been preliminarily classified as the negligent storage of firearms or ammunition, a violation under Article 264 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The Rivne regional police press service reported that the explosion occurred while bomb disposal personnel were on duty inside the department building.