Embassy of the Russian Federation in Armenia.
The Russian Embassy in Armenia has issued a statement regarding the killing of six members of one family in Gyumri, the country’s second largest city. A Russian soldier, Valeri Permyakov, who was stationed at the 102nd Russian military base in that city is suspected of the gruesome murder. A nationwide manhunt is underway to find him.
“We are shocked at the horrifying tragedy in Gyumri. We mourn with the Armenian people. We express our sympathy to the family and friends of those murdered. Those who committed this horrifying crime must be severely punished. Presently, the relevant authorities of the Republic of Armenia and the Russian Federation are undertaking the necessary investigative operations to ensure an objective and comprehensive investigation,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, Armenian Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan has had a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoygu about the tragedy that took place in Gyumri. The spokesperson for the Armenian Defense Ministry, Artsrun Hovhannisyan said that the deputy defense ministers of both countries have also spoken.
“The Russian officials have expressed their condolences regarding the murders in Gyumri and have condemned the crime. Moreover, they have promised to do everything to fully disclose the circumstances surrounding the crime. Additionally, a special commission will be sent to Russia to investigate the incident,” Hovhannisyan said adding that Minister Seyran Ohanyan will leave for Gyumri tomorrow to meet with members of a special Russian investigation team expected to arrive from Moscow.
On January 12, at approximately noon, police in Gyumri received an emergency call that six members of one family had been murdered in their home. The lone surviving infant of the family was rushed to hospital where he has undergone surgery. His condition remains critical.
According to sources, at approximately 6:20 A.M., neighbors heard something like an explosion or gunfire; they thought it could have been an earthquake. Later in the morning, at about 10:00 A.M., a relative discovered the horrifying scene; all members of the family had died of gunshot wounds.