Special forces have neutralized the shooter who barricaded himself atop a residential high-rise in Murmansk

A gunman opened fire from the rooftop of a multistory building in central Murmansk late Sunday, prompting a rapid response from Russian law enforcement and National Guard units. The attacker, who appeared to be acting alone, barricaded himself with barbed wire and began shooting indiscriminately at nearby buildings and police vehicles.

Gunfire was first heard around 22:00 local time, according to residents of the northern Russian city. Eyewitnesses said the shooter fired at residential windows and law enforcement patrols before authorities cordoned off the area.

Special Forces and National Guard units quickly arrived on the scene, while Murmansk Region Governor Andrey Chibis urged residents to turn off their apartment lights and stay away from windows for safety.

Multiple videos shared by police and circulating on social media captured the incident as it unfolded, with sporadic gunfire echoing through the streets.

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One clip appears to show the suspect on the rooftop, armed with what seems to be two rifles.

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The gunman was eventually "neutralized" after security forces stormed the rooftop, according to a statement from the regional National Guard. Footage released by the agency shows officers in full protective gear cutting through barbed wire as they approach the suspect's position.

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No injuries were reported among civilians or law enforcement personnel, according to TASS. The gunman, reportedly shot and wounded by a police sniper, was the only casualty.

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The shooter's motive remains unclear. Investigators say the incident began when the suspect opened fire on a police patrol car. According to the Telegram channel Mash, the man made no demands prior to the attack.

The suspect has been identified as a 44-year-old local resident who allegedly acted alone. The Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case and is treating the incident as attempted murder of law enforcement officers.

READ MORE: Putin calls for developing cities in Arctic Circle

The shooting occurred just days after Murmansk hosted the International Arctic Forum, which was attended by President Vladimir Putin. In a keynote address, Putin underscored the strategic importance of the Arctic region and outlined major infrastructure and development plans for Russia's northern territories.

(RT.com)