Bulgarian businessman and football club owner Iliyan Filipov was shot and killed at a property he occupied in Plovdiv early Wednesday morning, according to local authorities and regional media reports. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the incident involved a firearm, prompting an immediate regional lockdown and an ongoing homicide investigation.
Shooting Investigation and Police Response in Plovdiv
Senior Commissioner Vasil Kostadinov of the Plovdiv Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Interior addressed journalists during a morning briefing at 8:30 a.m., confirming that investigators are treating the case as an intentional homicide involving a firearm.
Immediately following the emergency call, police established checkpoints on the exits out of Plovdiv to restrict movement. Kostadinov stated that the restrictive measures and heightened checkpoint controls will remain in place as long as necessary. Prosecutors confirmed that investigative teams began gathering forensic evidence overnight and are actively interviewing potential witnesses. Authorities stated that no prior threats against Filipov had been officially reported to police prior to the attack.
Business Ventures and Ownership of Botev Plovdiv
Filipov, born on March 31, 1973, was a prominent industrial figure in Bulgaria, directing the PIMK transport and construction holding group. PIMK was registered in February 2000 and grew into one of the country’s largest freight transport enterprises, later expanding into rail cargo and passenger services through PIMK Rail Express.
Beyond logistics and construction, Filipov held a major profile in Bulgarian sports. In June of the previous year, he took over ownership of the professional football club Botev Plovdiv. His construction firm, PIMK, was also responsible for building the club’s stadium.
Last Known Hours Before the Attack
Sportal.bg reported that Filipov spent the evening prior to the shooting in the company of the head of Spartak, watching a national team football match together. Prosecutors and police have stated that the investigation remains in its initial phase, with investigators reviewing operational data and exploring multiple potential motives.