Fort Lauderdale, Florida — Authorities have revealed new details about a tragic series of shootings that claimed six lives across Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota. The suspected shooter is believed to have taken his own life following the violent events that unfolded in two neighborhoods.
On Friday, police shared a distressing 911 call made by the daughter of one of the victims, Larisa Blyudaya. She urgently sought police assistance, expressing concern over her mother’s well-being at a condo in Victoria Park. “I need the police to come right now,” she reported, clearly anxious about possible danger.
As her worries mounted, she reassured the dispatcher that she had attempted to reach out multiple times. “I’m not sure why an officer has not been dispatched yet,” the dispatcher replied, reflecting the urgency of the situation. In a desperate plea, she reiterated, “Can you please make sure an officer gets dispatched ASAP?”
Amid these tragic circumstances, additional distress calls have surfaced, including one from the family of Russell Kot, the suspected shooter. They contacted authorities after he allegedly sent a suicidal text message. “We don’t know where he is; we can’t find him,” a family member stated, underscoring their concern as they sought help from police.
Following the violent spree, investigators discovered two handguns, ammunition, five knives, rope, tape, and an axe in Kot’s vehicle. These items were alongside the two guns reportedly used in the shootings, which took place at a condo where Larisa lived with her family. Kot allegedly killed Larisa, her son, her parents, her brother, and a close family friend.
Olga Greinert, who was assisting Larisa’s family, tragically became a victim herself during the incident. Her ex-husband and youngest son expressed their heartache over her sudden passing. “They called me and said that Olga is dead. I nearly crashed,” said her ex-husband, Mykola Hreynbrt. Eldar, her youngest son, reflected on the profound loss, stating, “The thought of never seeing her again right now is just unthinkable.”
In the wake of this tragedy, family members of the victims are seeking to honor their lives with positive remembrances. An online fundraiser established for Olga characterizes her as a “kind, warm, and sincere person,” highlighting her nurturing spirit and ability to bring comfort to those around her.
The community grapples with the aftermath of this horrific event as families mourn their losses and strive to keep the memories of their loved ones alive. The police investigation continues, and the impact of these tragic events lingers deeply within the neighborhood and beyond.