Russia Launches Criminal Probe After Nine Newborn Deaths at Siberian Hospital

Investigation Underway in Novokuznetsk

Russian authorities have launched a criminal investigation following the deaths of nine newborns at Maternity Hospital No. 1 in Novokuznetsk, a city in Russia's southwestern Siberia. The probe, initiated by Russia's Investigative Committee, is examining potential negligence and causing death by negligence. Forensic specialists are currently working at the hospital to determine the exact cause of the infants' deaths, with staff being questioned and medical records seized. The Kemerovo regional branch of the Russian Prosecutor General's Office has taken direct control of the investigation.

Reported Causes and Hospital Response

The deaths occurred between December 1, 2025, and January 11, 2026. The Kemerovo region's Healthcare Ministry stated that the infants died due to 'medical complications' and 'severe intrauterine infections.' Out of 234 births recorded at the hospital during this period, 32 newborns required treatment in the intensive care unit, with 17 in critical condition due to severe intrauterine infections. Most of these critically ill infants, specifically 16 out of 17, were born prematurely.

Local media reports, citing an anonymous healthcare source, suggested that acute staffing shortages might have contributed to the high mortality rate, with nursing assistants allegedly performing the duties of specialized nurses. The hospital itself announced a temporary suspension of admissions, citing a 'flu quarantine' or respiratory infection rates exceeding a set threshold.

Official Reactions and Further Actions

In response to the tragedy, Vitaly Kheraskov, the head doctor of Maternity Hospital No. 1, has been suspended for the duration of the investigation. While denying the doctors' guilt, Kheraskov noted that the deceased infants were born with pathologies. Kemerovo Governor Ilya Seredyuk has ordered inspections of all maternity hospitals and perinatal centers in the region to ensure their readiness for complex cases. Federal specialists from Moscow are also expected to arrive to evaluate obstetric care services.

The incident has drawn national attention, with Valentina Matviyenko, Speaker of Russia's upper house of parliament, describing the deaths as 'a tragedy for the state' and emphasizing the need for federal-level conclusions to prevent recurrence. Currently, four children remain under observation in intensive care, and another four have been transferred to a different children's hospital for treatment.