Gunman Opens Fire In Kyiv, Several Dead; Hostage Situation Underway

Last Updated:April 18, 2026, 21:07 IST

Gunman opens fire in Kyiv district, killing at least one and injuring several, then enters Velmart supermarket and reportedly takes hostages, special forces surround area.

A gunman opened fire in Ukraine’s capital on Saturday, killing at least one person and injuring several others, with authorities launching a major operation to detain the suspect.

According to police, the shooting took place in the Holosiivskyi District of Kyiv, with special forces deployed to the scene.

“According to preliminary information, one person was killed and several others were wounded," police said, adding that the exact number of victims is still being verified.

Suspect opens fire, situation escalates

Initial reports suggest the attacker used an automatic weapon and fired at passersby in the Demiyivka area before fleeing.

Authorities said the suspect later entered a Velmart supermarket, where he is believed to have taken hostages.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that the attacker remains at large and that a special operation is ongoing.

“A special operation to apprehend the man who opened fire and is currently inside a supermarket is ongoing. Gunshots are also being heard inside," Klitschko said.

Special forces deployed

Police units and elite KORD special forces have surrounded the area and are attempting to neutralise the threat.

Videos circulating on social media appear to show the suspect firing at civilians, though authorities have not yet verified the footage.

Casualties and uncertainty

Officials said the attack has resulted in multiple casualties, though the final toll remains unclear as the situation continues to unfold.

Emergency services are on site, and injured victims are being treated.

News world Gunman Opens Fire In Kyiv, Several Dead; Hostage Situation Underway

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