Roman Starovoit, Russia’s former Minister of Transport, has died by suicide just hours after being dismissed by President Vladimir Putin, according to Russian media reports.
The Investigative Committee of Russia confirmed that Starovoit was found dead in his personal vehicle with a gunshot wound. Reports suggest he may have used an honorary firearm awarded to him by the Interior Ministry in 2023.
While no official reason was given for his sudden removal from office on Monday, sources told Reuters that discussions about his dismissal had been ongoing for weeks, amid allegations of corruption linked to his time as governor in Kursk. Starovoit had served as transport minister for just one year.
Speculation is mounting that his death may be connected to a potential criminal investigation.
Following the announcement of Starovoit’s death, President Putin appointed Andrey Nikitin, the former governor of Novgorod, as acting Minister of Transport.
