The quiet Madrid suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcón was shaken on Wednesday morning, May 21, when Ukrainian ex-politician and lawyer Andrei Portnov was shot dead in broad daylight. The murder took place just outside the American School, shortly after Portnov had dropped off his two daughters. Witnesses say a man dressed in black and wearing a hood opened fire before fleeing the scene. At least one eyewitness, a mother sitting in her car nearby, saw the entire incident unfold.

Hit-style killing by a man dressed in black

Police believe Portnov was targeted in what appears to be a professional hit. The attacker wore a black tracksuit and hood, and had a beard. He approached Portnov as the 52-year-old crossed the street to get to his car. Multiple shots were fired, including two in the back and one to the head. Emergency services could only confirm his death at the scene. Witnesses also reported seeing up to three people involved in the attack. The group reportedly escaped through nearby trees, possibly heading toward the Casa de Campo park.

Authorities search for suspects

By Wednesday afternoon, police had sealed off the area and launched a major manhunt. They used drones, horses, and a helicopter to search the wooded area around the school. Five bullet casings were found at the scene, and the vehicle’s boot was searched for further clues. Investigators are exploring multiple leads, including Portnov’s controversial past in Ukraine.

Who was Andrei Portnov?

Andrei Portnov served as a top legal advisor to former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych from 2010 to 2014. He left Ukraine after the violent crackdown on the 2014 pro-European Maidan protests, which left around 100 people dead. Portnov was accused of helping draft anti-protest laws and was sanctioned by both the EU and the United States. The EU lifted its sanctions in 2015, but the U.S. sanctioned him again in 2021 for allegedly using his influence to manipulate the Ukrainian justice system.

Legal battles and a controversial reputation

Portnov was known for winning multiple defamation lawsuits against Ukrainian journalists. In 2018, Ukraine’s security service accused him of treason for allegedly helping Russia during its annexation of Crimea. Although that case was later dropped, it added to his already controversial image. Just a few months ago, reports emerged suggesting he had relocated to Spain. He had apparently received a special permit allowing him to reside in the country. Reports suggest he was arranging the transfer of property to his children shortly before his death.

Community in shock

The killing has left the Pozuelo community in shock, especially parents and staff at the American School. After news of the shooting spread, many parents rushed to pick up their children. Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive, but the leading theory is that it was a targeted act of revenge or a political vendetta. Investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this time.