Camilla Jessen
A shocking crime in the village of Krasny Kust has reignited concerns about violence committed by Russian soldiers returning from the front in Ukraine.
A soldier recently returned from Ukraine has been arrested in connection with the brutal rape and killing of a 54-year-old library worker in Russia’s Vladimir Region.
Authorities say the suspect, age 22, attacked Lyudmila Fomina while she was walking home from visiting friends on the night of May 18–19.
This was reported by The Moscow Times.
Buried Alive in a Forest
According to investigators cited by local outlet Zebra TV, the man — whose name has not been made public — raped and beat Fomina before dragging her to a remote area near the village of Krasny Kust.
He left her for dead and reportedly returned the next day to bury her in the forest.
An autopsy later revealed soil in her lungs, indicating she was still alive at the time she was buried.
The suspect is a local resident who had returned home on leave from military service in Ukraine.
Sources also say he had previously been implicated in a case involving violence against a minor.
Fomina, a well-known and respected librarian in her community, was described by friends and colleagues as “kind-hearted” and “always willing to help.”
“She devoted many years to serving culture, organizing events that touched the hearts of many,” wrote local publication Dovod. “Her optimism and bright smile warmed everyone around her.”
Villagers say her loss has left a deep wound in the community.
Growing Pattern of Violence
Fomina’s death is one of hundreds of violent incidents involving soldiers returning from Russia’s war in Ukraine.
According to Verstka, at least 378 people have been killed and 376 seriously injured by military personnel who have returned home since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022.
These crimes have taken place across 80 regions of Russia, as well as annexed territories like Crimea and the disputed South Ossetia.
The majority are domestic in nature, often fueled by alcohol abuse, and typically involve the victim being a relative or acquaintance of the perpetrator.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the suspect in Fomina’s killing will face charges under civilian or military law.