Sergei Gorshunov, a businessman with ties to organized crime, has been charged with the 1992 murder of Viktor Ternyak, a prominent businessman known as the first Ural oligarch. The case, which remained unsolved for over three decades, has now reached the courts.

Viktor Ternyak was shot dead in his car along with his bodyguard and driver in Yekaterinburg in 1992. The assassination, carried out by a hitman, shocked the city and marked the end of a controversial yet successful career.

Born in Ukraine in 1947, Ternyak demonstrated entrepreneurial skills early in life. He moved to Sverdlovsk and quickly excelled in the catering industry, earning a reputation as a demanding yet effective manager.

Ternyak’s life took a turn when he was arrested in 1984 for bribery and served a short prison sentence. It was during this time that he met influential figures from the criminal underworld, including members of the “Center” organized crime group.

Upon his release, Ternyak’s business ventures expanded rapidly. He opened successful cafes and restaurants, gained control of key locations like the Central Market and Central Hotel, and established himself as a major player in the region’s economy. He ventured into exports, banking, and even introduced cashless bank cards.

Ternyak’s connections to both the criminal world and influential figures in business and politics were complex. He initially partnered with the “Center” group but later aligned with the “Uralmash” group, leading to conflicts and ultimately, his demise.

On the morning of September 8, 1992, Ternyak was ambushed and killed while being driven to work. The gunman, later identified as Sergei Gorshunov, opened fire on the car, fatally wounding Ternyak.

The investigation into Ternyak’s murder stalled for many years, but was reopened in 2025. Sergei Gorshunov was arrested and charged with the crime based on new evidence and witness testimonies.

Gorshunov, who has a background in business and technology, had previously been implicated in other criminal cases. He denies involvement in the “Center” organized crime group.

The trial of Sergei Gorshunov is now underway, seeking to bring closure to a case that has haunted Yekaterinburg for decades.