A Russian missile strike on the town of Merefa in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region has killed at least six people and injured or traumatized more than 30 others, local authorities and prosecutors said.
According to the Kharkiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office, the attack occurred on the morning of May 4 at around 9:35 a.m., when Russian forces launched a ballistic missile—reportedly an “Iskander”—at the town in the Kharkiv region. The missile struck a roadway, causing immediate destruction and civilian casualties.
Initial reports confirmed that three women and two men were killed at the scene. Later, authorities reported that a severely injured woman died in hospital, bringing the death toll to six.
The victims include men aged 50, 63, and 68, and women aged 41, 52, and 74. Prosecutors confirmed that four people died instantly, while others succumbed to injuries later in medical facilities.
The number of injured has risen significantly, with at least 31 people affected. Regional officials said that 16 victims suffered blast-related injuries of varying severity and were hospitalized, including a 16-year-old boy. Another 12 people experienced moderate injuries or acute stress reactions. A 2-year-old child also received medical assistance and is in satisfactory condition, continuing outpatient treatment.
Several of the injured remain in serious condition, with doctors continuing to provide intensive care.
The missile strike caused widespread destruction in the town. Residential buildings, commercial shops, a restaurant, automotive service station, outbuildings, and vehicles were damaged in the blast.
Ukrainian law enforcement has opened a criminal investigation into a suspected war crime under Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, relating to actions causing civilian deaths.
Emergency services, medics, and investigators remain at the scene, documenting damage and assisting survivors as the community deals with the aftermath of the attack.
UPDATED
Another person injured in the morning missile strike on Merefa has died in the hospital, bringing the total death toll to seven, said Oleh Syniehubov, head of the Kharkiv Regional Military Administration.
