Protest in Sofia Demands Justice in Evgenia Vladimirova Murder Case

Sofia, Bulgaria – A large protest took place in front of the Courthouse in Sofia on Thursday, February 19, 2026, as demonstrators demanded a life sentence for the killers of Evgenia Vladimirova, according to reports from Bulgarian National Radio (BTA) [https://www.bnr.bg/].

Sentence Reduction Sparks Outrage

The protest stemmed from a recent decision by the Sofia Court of Appeal to reduce the sentence of Orlin Vladimirov, convicted in connection with Evgenia’s murder, from life imprisonment to 20 years. Plamen Vladimirov, Orlin’s father, was fully acquitted in the ruling. This decision followed a review by the Supreme Court of Cassation, which had sent the case back to the second instance court for re-examination. Both defendants had previously received life sentences in both initial trials.

Organized by Friends and Family

The protest was organized via Facebook by relatives and friends of Evgenia Vladimirova, and was titled “Justice for Etty and her relatives,” with protesters chanting slogans such as “None More” and “Life in Prison for Murderers.” A significant police presence was reported in the area, and traffic was disrupted.

Focus on Domestic Violence

Protesters also voiced concerns about the broader issue of domestic violence and assaults on women in Bulgaria. Organizers highlighted the fact that a limited number of victims seek assistance from authorities after experiencing aggression. A key demand of the protesters is a life sentence for Evgenia’s killer.

The “Woman in the Suitcase” Case

The case gained notoriety in Bulgaria and was dubbed “the woman in the suitcase” after the dismembered body of 33-year-old Evgenia Vladimirova was discovered in a suitcase in a reservoir near Pernik in late 2021. Expertise determined she had been strangled, and the death occurred in a particularly painful manner, with Evgenia being conscious during the assault.