On the morning of March 28, 2025, the Central District Court of Novosibirsk made a crucial decision regarding 19-year-old Nikita Zastavenyuk, who stands accused of causing a tragic car accident that resulted in the deaths of two individuals. The court ordered that Zastavenyuk be held in custody until May 27, 2025, as he faces serious charges stemming from the incident.
The accident occurred late on the night of March 26, 2025, around 11:47 PM, at the intersection of Krasny Prospekt and Gogol Street in the heart of Novosibirsk. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Zastavenyuk, driving a BMW X6, allegedly ran a red light and collided with a Hyundai that had the right of way. This reckless act led to the deaths of two passengers in the Hyundai, while three others, including the driver and two passengers, sustained injuries of varying severity.
In light of the gravity of the situation, a criminal case has been opened against Zastavenyuk under Part 6 of Article 264 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. This statute pertains to the violation of traffic rules that results in the death of two or more persons through negligence by an individual who is under the influence of alcohol. During the court proceedings, the prosecutor supported the investigator's request for Zastavenyuk to be remanded in custody for two months.
Reports indicate that Zastavenyuk, the son of a prominent Altai entrepreneur, Sergei Zastavenyuk, acknowledged his culpability in the accident. His lawyer stated that he does not deny having consumed a small amount of alcohol shortly before the crash. The young man had moved to Novosibirsk from Barnaul to pursue his studies at Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU), where he is currently a first-year student. Notably, he has no prior criminal record.
Following the accident, the Ministry of Health reported on March 27 that the injured individuals were in a very serious condition and receiving intensive care. The incident has sparked considerable public interest, not only because of its tragic nature but also due to Zastavenyuk's familial connections.
His father, Sergei Zastavenyuk, passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy in the business sector. After his father’s death, Nikita took over the family business, PK Hercules LLC, which specializes in the production of flour and grain products. He became a member of the company in January 2025, and according to the financial data from Kontur.Focus, the company reported revenues of 3.1 billion rubles and a net profit of 113 million rubles by the end of 2024.
The BMW involved in the accident is registered under the company’s name and has several outstanding fines for speeding, ranging from 20 to 40 km/h. This detail raises questions about the vehicle's maintenance and the responsibility of the company in ensuring the safety of its drivers.
As the case unfolds, it highlights broader issues surrounding road safety and the consequences of driving under the influence. Community members and officials have expressed their outrage over the incident, calling for stricter enforcement of traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In the wake of this incident, the local community is left grappling with the loss of life and the implications of Zastavenyuk’s actions. The court's decision to detain him reflects the seriousness of the charges he faces and the public's demand for accountability in such tragic circumstances. The next hearing is expected to draw significant attention as the legal process continues to unfold.
As the investigation progresses, it remains to be seen how this case will impact Zastavenyuk's future and the operations of PK Hercules LLC. The family business, which has been a staple in the Altai region, now faces scrutiny not only from the public but also from regulatory bodies concerned with the actions of its new leadership.
This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to traffic regulations. With two lives lost and others severely affected, the community is left to mourn and reflect on the consequences of such actions.
Ultimately, the case of Nikita Zastavenyuk will not only determine his fate but may also influence future discussions on traffic safety and corporate responsibility in the region. As the legal proceedings continue, the public will be watching closely, hoping for justice for the victims and their families.
