Man Attacking Women in Sofia Detained, Receiving Psychiatric Care

A man accused of repeatedly attacking women and girls in central Sofia has been detained and is undergoing treatment at the State Psychiatric Hospital “St. Ivan Rilski.” The detention follows reports filed by victims, beginning on March 8, prompting a police operation to locate and apprehend the suspect.

Details of the Attacks

Residents of Sofia’s Reduta neighborhood reported being subjected to unprovoked attacks, including being pushed, punched, and spat upon. Social media posts and online publications detailed accounts of the man allegedly screaming at women, chasing them, and throwing objects at them.

Police Response and Detention

According to the Metropolitan Police, a patrol was initiated immediately after a report was filed by a victim on March 8. This led to the suspect’s apprehension and subsequent placement at the “St. Ivan Rilski” psychiatric hospital for evaluation and treatment.

About St. Ivan Rilski Hospital

The State Psychiatric Hospital “St. Ivan Rilski” is a leading medical institution in Bulgaria specializing in mental health care. More information about the hospital can be found on its official website. Recent news from the hospital includes an increase in doctors trained in the latest treatments for cerebrovascular diseases and the groundbreaking of a recent, state-of-the-art Center for Radiotherapy and Radio Surgery.

Historical Significance of St. Ivan Rilski

The hospital is named after Saint Ivan of Rila (c. 876 – 946), a Bulgarian hermit and saint revered as the patron saint of the Bulgarians. According to Wikipedia, he founded the Rila Monastery, one of Bulgaria’s most famous landmarks. Saint Ivan Rilski is also honored with a chapel in Antarctica, the southernmost Eastern Orthodox building of worship in the world.