Hunt for the Principality's killer; he wanted to kill the Kiev magnate
Translated from Italian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An explosion in Monaco targeted Ukrainian magnate Vadim Ermolaev, who is in critical condition.
- Ermolaev's wife was severely injured, losing her feet, and their teenage son was also hurt.
- Authorities are investigating the incident as a targeted attempted murder, with the suspect having fled into France.
Monaco, a principality known for luxury and wealth, experienced an unprecedented act of violence when an explosion targeted Ukrainian magnate Vadim Ermolaev outside his residence. The blast shattered windows and left debris scattered, creating what witnesses described as a "war zone."
It looked like a war zone.
Ermolaev, 58, who had renounced his Ukrainian citizenship for Cypriot, is in critical condition. His wife sustained severe injuries, reportedly losing her feet, and their 13-year-old son also suffered injuries, though not life-threatening. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents describing it as the most serious act of violence they can recall in the principality.
Sources close to the investigation have clarified that the event is not considered terrorism but a "tentative multiple homicide." Security footage captured a suspect leaving an explosive device at Ermolaev's entrance just as the magnate and his family arrived. The device detonated upon their approach. The suspect, whose face was partially obscured by a hat, fled on foot towards Beausoleil, a French commune near the border.
without her feet
Investigators are exploring motives related to Ermolaev's business dealings, which involve billions in transactions and accusations of money laundering. His luxurious lifestyle in Monaco, including his cars, yacht, and mansion, was well-known. Authorities in Monaco stated they had no prior knowledge of any complaints against Ermolaev or any threats he may have received.
We have a single man who presented himself at the door - he deposited an object that we are examining, right after the three occupants of the ground floor apartment presented themselves at the entrance. The object exploded precisely at the moment these three people arrived.
Originally published by ANSA in Italian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.