The victims were identified as 45-year-old Russian citizen Maksim Radchenko and 47-year-old Russian journalist Inessa Papernaya, a reporter for the Russian media outlet Lenta. In another room at the same hotel, the body of a 48-year-old Uzbek citizen, identified as Kh.U., was also discovered.

A preliminary forensic medical examination suggests that the cause of death for all three individuals was poisoning of unknown origin. Authorities have launched a criminal investigation under Article 186, Part 4, Clause “a” of the Criminal Code, which pertains to deaths caused by poisoning. Investigative actions are currently underway.

Reports circulated on social media indicate that on October 20, Papernaya received a postal package at the hotel. When staff tried to contact her in her room, they received no response. Upon entering the room, they discovered the lifeless bodies of Papernaya and Radchenko.