KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A tragic shooting incident unfolded in the streets of Kyiv on Saturday, claiming the lives of at least six people. The gunman, who carried a legally registered carbine, opened fire before taking hostages and barricading himself inside a nearby supermarket. Ukrainian officials confirmed that police shot the assailant dead after unsuccessful negotiations.

The Interior Ministry of Ukraine, led by Ihor Klymenko, provided updates on the situation via social media. He explained that special tactical police units were deployed to storm the supermarket after negotiations with the gunman failed. The suspect was killed during an encounter with police as he resisted arrest.

Klymenko reported that the assailant had initially shot four individuals on the street. After entering the supermarket, he killed a fifth person. The sixth victim, identified as a young woman, passed away later from her injuries in the hospital.

According to Klymenko, negotiations with the attacker lasted approximately 40 minutes. The police made multiple efforts to dissuade him from harm, including offering to bring medical supplies like tourniquets to assist any potential wounded individuals inside the supermarket. However, the gunman did not respond to these overtures, leading to the decision to neutralize him.

During Klymenko's statement, he emphasized the presence of the gunman’s legally registered carbine. It was also noted that he had approached licensing authorities in December 2022 to have the weapon test-fired due to his permit nearing expiration. He had provided a medical certificate and submitted an application to renew his weapon’s permit, raising questions about the vetting process that allowed him to possess a firearm.

The incident took place in the Holosiivskyi district of Kyiv, where reporters observed police taking cover in the shopping mall that included the supermarket. Bystanders were evacuated from the vicinity to ensure their safety amid the shooting.

This violent episode has sparked significant concern regarding public safety and the effectiveness of firearm regulations in Ukraine. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the gunman's medical certification and the steps taken by authorities in granting him a weapons permit.