Bulgaria Investigates Mysterious Deaths in Mountains, Seeks International Assistance
Bulgaria is grappling with a perplexing case involving the deaths of six people in the Petrohan pass and Okolchitsa Peak areas, prompting a request for international assistance. The investigation, dubbed by some as Bulgaria’s “Twin Peaks,” has captivated the nation and raised numerous questions.
Timeline of Events
The case began in early February with the discovery of three men – aged 45, 49, and 51 – found dead in the burned-out remains of a lodge near the Petrohan pass. Forensic experts initially indicated the deaths were likely self-inflicted, with gunshot wounds to the head. DNA analysis reportedly confirmed the firearms were used by the deceased.
Subsequently, on February 10th, authorities discovered the bodies of three more individuals – two men aged 51 and 22, and a 15-year-old boy – in a campervan near Okolchitsa Peak, approximately 62 miles north of Sofia. These deaths were determined to be the result of two murders followed by a suicide, according to forensic reports.
Investigation and International Cooperation
The Sofia District Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation and has requested international cooperation to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Requests for assistance have been sent to a United States partner agency and Europol, through Bulgaria’s national representative at Eurojust.
Prosecutors are seeking specialized technical assistance to extract and analyze data from multiple electronic devices seized as evidence, including telephones and computers. The goal is to identify any relevant information stored on these devices.
the prosecution is requesting Europol’s analytical and expert support to compile reports on the activities of the six Bulgarian nationals in Mexico, including details about their stay, property ownership, vehicles, registered addresses, and any potential forensic records. This information is intended to help establish the full circumstances of the case.
Firearms and Suspects
Investigations revealed that Ivailo Kalushev possessed permits for two combat pistols, issued in November 2021, and both weapons were found at the scene near Okolchitsa Peak. Ivailo Ivanov was also granted a permit to possess 16 firearms in August 2021, and Nikolay Zaykov legally owned one combat pistol registered in February 2023.
The mother of Ivailo Kalushev, Stella Dimitrova-Maystorova, has publicly stated her belief in her son’s innocence, rejecting the investigators’ version of events. She expressed devastation and conviction that her son could not have been responsible for the tragedy.
On February 1st, a camper van belonging to Ivailo Kalushev, along with Nikolay Zlatkov and a 15-year-old boy, left the area of the former Petrohan mountain lodge and headed towards Okolchitsa Peak. The vehicle was later discovered with the bodies of the three individuals inside.
As of February 24, 2026, Ivailo Kalushev was wanted in connection with the case, with authorities suggesting he may also be deceased, based on a message he sent to his mother indicating a potential suicide attempt.