Zaur Gurtsyev was a Russian Major and military veteran involved in the 2022 assault on Ukraine’s Mariupol, reports Russian state media RIA Novosti.
Video of the explosion shared by RIA shows a man walking up to Gurtsyev with a bag, seconds before the detonation that killed both men.
According to investigators, the second person who died was a 29-year-old acquaintance of Gurtsyev.
Law enforcement agencies are investigating all possible motives, including terrorism, and have suggested potential Ukrainian involvemen, though no evidence has been presented.
Participated in bombing of Mariupol
Gurtsyev was a decorated officer who served in Russian operations in Mariupol, one of the war’s most brutal battles, which saw heavy fighting and significant civilian casualties.
Accordin to Russian state media, he was awarded the Order of Courage for leading the air operations in Mariupol.
He was appointed Stavropol’s first deputy mayor in September 2024 after graduating from the Military Academy of Communications and receiving multiple military honors.
The Kyiv Independent highlighted his role in leading attacks on Mariupol during Russia’s invasion. Ukrainian officials have not confirmed involvement in the explosion.
Authorities say the situation in Stavropol remains under control as the investigation continues.