Petrohan-Okolchitsa Case: Families Demand Answers, Father Takes Body Against Mother’s Wishes
Sofia, Bulgaria – The investigation into the deaths of six individuals in the Petrohan and Okolchitsa areas of Bulgaria continues to fuel public outcry and family disputes, as relatives demand transparency and justice. Recent developments include protests in Sofia and a conflict between the parents of one of the victims, Nikolay Zlatkov, over the handling of his remains.
Timeline of Events and Deaths
Between February 1st and February 8th, 2026, five men and one 15-year-old boy died from gunshot wounds in two separate locations in Northwestern Bulgaria: a lodge near the Petrohan Pass and a camper van near Okolchitsa Peak. The victims have been identified as Ivaylo Kalushev, Ivaylo Ivanov, Nikolay Zlatkov, Decho Vasilev, Plamen Statev, and Alexander Makulev.
Dispute Over Nikolay Zlatkov’s Body
Ralitsa Asenova, the mother of 22-year-old Nikolay Zlatkov, publicly expressed her distress after learning that her son’s father took his body without her consent. Asenova insists on a thorough and objective investigation into the circumstances surrounding her son’s death, advocating for independent forensic examinations. She stated that her son’s father’s actions “prevent this possibility” and represent a “betrayal of both the search for truth and the memory of our son.” Fakti.bg reported on March 12, 2026.
Protests Demand Transparency
On March 13, 2026, relatives of the victims organized a protest in front of the Courthouse in Sofia, demanding investigators release key facts still missing from the investigation. The protest, titled “Show the facts! Protest for transparency and justice for Petrohan and Okolchitsa,” was organized by Ralitsa Asenova. Radio Bulgaria and BTA reported on the demonstration.
Investigation Details and Forensic Findings
The bodies of Ivaylo Kalushev, Nikolay Zlatkov, and Alexander Makulev were discovered on February 8th near the village of Chelopek. Investigators found a revolver near Kalushev’s body, believed to be the weapon used in the shootings, along with a loaded Glock pistol. Alexander Makulev was shot point-blank, and Nikolay Zlatkov sustained a gunshot wound to the temple. Initial reports suggested the possibility of outside intervention due to fragments found in Zlatkov’s head, but further investigation revealed only one entrance wound.
Conflicting Reports and Ongoing Examinations
Ralitsa Asenova questioned initial reports regarding the presence of semen at the scene, noting that later clarifications indicated none was found. Forensic experts are currently conducting a triple examination to determine the exact time of death, as well as complex psychological, psychiatric, theological, and sexological examinations to establish the motives behind the deaths.
Funerals and Remembrance
Ivaylo Kalushev was buried on Saturday, February 29th, and Alexander Makulev on Sunday, March 1st. Nikolay Zlatkov was buried prior to these dates, after his father initially took his body from the Vratsa hospital morgue. The poet Rumen Leonidov spoke at Kalushev’s funeral, referencing his Buddhist beliefs and the impact of the tragedy on Bulgarian society.