Two young people found dead near Bogdanci; investigators probe prior complaints and protection orders
Remains of the 17-year-old were found in a burned car; prosecutors say investigations point to murder and suicide while prior complaints and court orders against the man are under review.
Police and the public prosecutor are investigating the deaths of 17-year-old Biljana Kirić and 21-year-old Viktor Guntarov in the area of Bogdanci, in a case that investigators say initially points to a murder followed by suicide.
The incident was discovered on 3 November at about 18:40, after authorities received a report of a burning passenger car at the site known as "Icheva cheshma" in the Gorno Selo area near Bogdanci. Remains of the minor were found inside the burned vehicle, while the lifeless body of her 21-year-old partner was located nearby; unofficial information indicates he took his own life after the car was set on fire.
Previous complaints and protective measures
Records from the competent institutions show that several proceedings had been opened against Guntarov for violence and endangering the safety of the minor. On 30 September this year, at about 21:00, he was detained following a report that he had physically assaulted the 17-year-old.
On 16 October a complaint was filed at the Basic Public Prosecutor's Office Gevgelija reporting endangerment of the minor’s safety. The prosecutor’s office initiated proceedings, scheduled interviews, and ordered appropriate expert examinations. The last complaint was submitted four days before the tragedy.
In parallel with the criminal complaints, a civil procedure for protection from domestic violence resulted in a court order prohibiting Guntarov from approaching and harassing the girl — measures that were in force at the time of the incident.
Family members say the girl had been repeatedly subjected to physical attacks and harassment despite attempts to end the relationship and the existence of court measures. According to relatives, he forced her into a car before they travelled toward Bogdanci, and there are unconfirmed reports he had waited for her outside a gym in Gevgelija.
Authorities have ordered autopsies of both bodies to determine the exact causes of death. Investigators have also secured CCTV footage from multiple locations and continue to collect material evidence as they work to establish the full circumstances of the tragic event.
Photo: Kuebi = Armin Kübelbeck / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
