A Mariinsky Theatre soloist is facing criminal charges after allegedly spraying a passerby with pepper spray following a dispute over an unleashed dog. The incident occurred in St. Petersburg on February 25th and resulted in a police report and subsequent criminal case.

The altercation began when Petr, the passerby, encountered a couple with a large dog without a muzzle or leash. He requested that they restrain the animal, but was refused. Petr then attempted to record the incident on his phone.

According to Petr, the young man “attacked [him] for no apparent reason” and sprayed pepper spray in his face. Petr retreated and used snow to alleviate the effects of the spray before seeking medical attention at an emergency room. He later filed a police report detailing the incident.

A criminal case was opened two days later under the article on battery. The decree states that the soloist intentionally and without reason sprayed the canister in the face of the passerby.

The soloist, who remains unnamed in reports, has previously been involved in other incidents, including traumatic scooter accidents and complaints from neighbors. Residents have accused him of terrorizing them by walking his dog without a muzzle or leash.

The Mariinsky Theatre has stated that the ballet troupe soloist is not participating in this season’s performances.