LAPD Searches for Ukrainian Man After Child Abduction, Possible Ukraine Bound

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is searching for a man who abducted his two children from their school and crossed the U.S. border into Mexico. Authorities believe the suspect, Rodion Kolomoeits, may be attempting to travel to Ukraine with the children.

Kolomoeits, a 39-year-old Ukrainian national, is described as a White male with brown hair and gray eyes. He is suspected of taking his children, 9-year-old Avaora Kolomoeits and 7-year-old Hrant Kolomoeits, from their school on Tuesday morning. The abduction occurred after Kolomoeits lost custody of the children.

The vehicle believed to have been used in the kidnapping, a Toyota Prius, was seen crossing the border into Mexico at San Ysidro later that day. The suspect and his children primarily speak Russian. The LAPD is urging anyone with information about the missing children to come forward.

The situation unfolds amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Recent Russian airstrikes targeted Kyiv, prompting a response from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who stated the attacks were a reaction to international diplomatic efforts.