On August 23, multiple reports emerged of a Prigozhin-registered private jet that crashed in the Tver region of Russia. (source) (source) According to these reports, 10 individuals were reported dead due to the crash, including the Wagner Group’s owner and its highest-ranking commander Dmitry Utkin. (source). Furthermore, The death of Prigozhin as a result of the crash was confirmed by Russian aviation authorities and claimed to be likely by US officials. (source) (source)
US intelligence officials have claimed the plane was downed as a result of an intentional explosion onboard. (source) Although Wagner-linked social media sources claim the jet was struck by a missile, this claim was dismissed by Pentagon spokesperson General Ryder. According to Russian authorities, investigations regarding the cause of the crash and its victims are ongoing. (source)
