In Astana, a child on a bicycle died as a result of a road traffic accident (RTA) involving a lorry. The minor died at the scene from injuries sustained.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to the Astana City Police Department, the accident occurred on 26 May 2026. The driver of a Mercedes lorry, travelling along Tauelsizlik Avenue, while turning right onto Pushkin Street, hit a cyclist who was crossing the roadway.
As a result of the crash, the minor sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.
Information about the tragedy also spread on social media and the WhatsApp messenger. It was reported that the deceased was a pupil of Year 5 at School No. 27.
WHAT THE POLICE SAID
The Astana Police Department reported that a criminal case had been opened. The vehicle was taken to a municipal impound lot after the accident.
The police reminded drivers of the need to observe speed limits and to be especially vigilant near pedestrian crossings, residential areas, schools, and courtyards.
WHAT THE MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS SAID
Against the backdrop of an increase in incidents involving minors, the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) appealed to parents and teachers at the start of the summer holidays.
The head of the MIA's Administrative Police Committee, Murat Kabdenov, urged adults to keep a closer eye on children, to take an interest in who they are with and where they spend their time. The department recommended paying particular attention to teenagers' internet safety, including protection from bullying and dangerous content.
Furthermore, the police reported stricter controls on the sale of alcohol and tobacco products to minors, as well as on children being on the street at night without adult supervision.
"If you see a child in a dangerous situation, you cannot just walk past. Sometimes a timely comment or phone call can save a life," said Murat Kabdenov.
CONTEXT
The case of the schoolchild's death in Astana became another high-profile RTA involving children to occur in Kazakhstan.
On 13 May in Aktau, a service vehicle hit an 18-month-old child in the courtyard of a residential building in Microdistrict 27. The child died at the scene. A criminal case was opened regarding the accident under Part 3 of Article 345 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan ("Violation of traffic rules or operation of vehicles by persons driving vehicles").
Another incident occurred on 3 May in Astana in the courtyard of a house on Imanov Street. The driver of a Kia Seltos hit a child aged 1 year and 8 months who ran onto the roadway. The child also died at the scene.