A 24-year-old man with health problems died in his home.

On June 16, a Su-24M bomber crashed in Khmelnytskyi Oblast, resulting in the deaths of two military personnel. The incident has sparked an investigation led by the State Bureau of Investigations (DBR), which aims to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. According to preliminary findings, the aircraft had already completed one flight on that day before the fatal accident. Technical staff at the airbase did not detect any issues with the plane's condition prior to either flight, and all necessary documentation was properly completed according to established procedures. This information contradicts earlier reports suggesting that one of the pilots might have ejected from the aircraft, which the DBR has now refuted.

The investigation includes interviews with family members of the deceased, as well as colleagues and superiors within the military. Witnesses stated that both pilots underwent required medical examinations before their flight and showed no signs of distress or discomfort. They were described as professional soldiers who were respected among their peers, and there were no indications of personal problems that could have influenced the outcome of the mission. DNA analysis confirmed the identities of the victims, identifying them as Major Bogdan Zagorulko, aged 55, and Senior Lieutenant Bogdan Babenko, aged 23.

The DBR continues its inquiry under Article 416, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which deals with violations of flight rules or preparation for flights leading to catastrophic consequences. The investigation also involves deciphering data from the so-called "black box," retrieved from the wreckage site, which will provide further insights into the sequence of events leading up to the crash. Once this process is complete, an independent aviation-technical expert examination will be conducted by the command of the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The crash occurred around 19:05 local time on June 16 near Khmelnytskyi. The Su-24M belonged to the 7th Brigade of Tactical Aviation named after Peter Frank. Both pilots were identified as experienced professionals serving in the Ukrainian military. Their families have been informed about the tragic incident, and the DBR expressed condolences to them during the ongoing investigation.

As part of the broader context, the incident highlights concerns regarding the safety protocols followed by the military aviation units. While initial assessments suggest that the aircraft was in good technical condition and the pilots were fit for duty, the full extent of the factors contributing to the crash remains under scrutiny. The results of the black box analysis and subsequent expert evaluations will play a crucial role in determining whether any procedural lapses or mechanical failures contributed to the disaster.

The investigation is still in progress, with the DBR emphasizing the importance of thoroughness in uncovering all relevant details. Until the completion of the service investigation and the independent technical assessment, the cause of the crash remains uncertain. The outcomes of these processes will inform future measures aimed at enhancing aviation safety standards and preventing similar incidents in the future.