Two separate vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks occurred in Moscow on Tuesday, June 9, resulting in the death of a senior military official and a controlled detonation near a research facility.
Fatal Explosion in Balashikha
On Tuesday morning in Balashikha, east of Moscow, a BMW X3 was destroyed by an explosion while driving along Koldunov Street. The driver died at the scene from his injuries. The Russian Investigative Committee has launched a formal investigation, including forensic and explosive analyses, overseen by the regional prosecutor’s office.
Media reports identify the victim as Damir Davydov, a high-ranking officer in the Main Missile and Artillery Directorate (GRAU) of the Russian Ministry of Defense, reportedly responsible for missile and artillery supplies. Russian authorities have not yet announced any arrests or motives regarding this specific incident.
Arrest of Teenagers in Southwest Moscow
On the same day, the Russian Investigative Committee reported the arrest of two teenagers in connection with an incident in southwest Moscow. Investigators stated that unknown individuals recruited the girl to retrieve an explosive device from a hidden location and pass it to a boy. The boy allegedly placed the bomb and a GPS tracker under a car belonging to an employee of a defense-related research facility.
Security services discovered the device, which was rendered safe via a controlled detonation. The teenagers, who were detained at the scene, face charges of attempted murder and illegal trafficking of explosives. Reports suggest the target was the Stelmakh Research Institute, a facility specializing in laser technology, which previously experienced a stabbing attack involving two other youths in March 2026.
Kremlin Response
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Vladimir Putin is receiving regular reports regarding both incidents. Peskov declined to provide further details, stating that the matters are under the purview of special services due to the ongoing investigations.
