The Motive Behind the Murder of Soldier Karen Karapetyan Was Revenge, According to the Investigative Committee

Circumstances surrounding the murder of soldier Karen Karapetyan, which occurred on January 9, 2024, have been clarified, including the motive.

According to a statement from the Investigative Committee, factual data have been obtained indicating that the motive for the soldier's murder was revenge.

Specifically, it has been established that on the day of the incident, January 9, 2024, between 04:30 and 05:00, Lieutenant K. Karapetyan made an offensive remark towards his colleague, N. Kh., during a conversation regarding service matters, namely about sleeping in the position.

Unable to tolerate the insult, N. Kh., driven by a motive for revenge, entered the combat position's underground shelter around 06:00, after handing over the combat duty. He charged his AK-103 assault rifle and approached Karen Karapetyan, who was lying down. Thereafter, he fired at Karen Karapetyan first with a single shot, then unleashing a burst towards him, inflicting injuries incompatible with life.

Based on sufficient evidence obtained, charges have been brought against N. Kh. under part 1 of Article 155 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia. He has been detained as a preventive measure. The preliminary investigation has been completed, and the case materials have been sent to the supervising prosecutor with an accusatory conclusion.