Prosecutors seek to extend detention for ex-wife suspected in paramedic’s murder

Panevėžys regional prosecutors have asked a court to extend the detention of Justina Gaigalaitė, the former wife of murdered paramedic Mantas Sadauskas, by the maximum three months, LRT reports.

“Yesterday, the prosecutor filed a request with the court to extend the detention for the maximum period of three months. In the prosecutor’s view, the grounds for detention have not changed,” Rasa Stundžienė, a spokeswoman for the Panevėžys regional prosecutor’s office, told ELTA on Friday.

Prosecutors had previously sought a three-month detention for Gaigalaitė in April, but the court granted only a shorter term. A similar request has been made for another suspect in the case, Vilius Solkanas, whose detention prosecutors also want extended by three months.

A hearing at Panevėžys district court has not yet been scheduled, but the court told ELTA it is planned for next week, with the date to be coordinated with prosecutors.

Three people are suspected in the paramedic’s murder. Gaigalaitė was initially detained for two months on suspicion of deliberate murder and unlawful deprivation of liberty. Another suspect, Ilja Solkanas, was released on bail of 5,000 euros. Media reports identify him as the father of Vilius Solkanas.

Sadauskas’ body was found on April 21 on the grounds of a homestead in the Panevėžys district. Investigators allege the victim’s body was wrapped in a trampoline and buried on the property. A weapon was found during a search of the scene.

Sadauskas, who ran a trampoline rental and delivery business, had told his father he received an order to deliver a trampoline for a children’s party at a kindergarten. After his disappearance, it was discovered that the customer’s details had been deleted, and local officials confirmed no such kindergarten existed at the address provided. Authorities suspect the murder may be linked to personal conflicts.