Two men receive prison sentences for shooting at Vilnius buses

Two young men from Šalčininkai district have been sentenced for firing an air gun at public transport buses and stop shelters in Vilnius and its surrounding district, LRT reported, citing the Prosecutor General’s Office. One man received a prison sentence and the other’s sentence was suspended.

The Vilnius City District Court sentenced D.K., who had previously been convicted several times, to one year in prison. He was also convicted of illegally possessing psychotropic substances without intent to distribute them and of theft. He must also pay €11,400 in fines imposed in earlier court rulings.

J.L. received a 60-day arrest sentence, suspended for one year. During the suspension, he must stay at home between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., remain within his city or district of residence, work or study, and complete a behavioural correction programme.

According to the case, from June 23 to 30, 2025, the men drove around Vilnius and its district in a BMW and fired an air gun at passing public transport buses and stop shelters. They were convicted in connection with 29 criminal acts. In some instances, they fired at buses while passengers were on board, creating a real risk of injury to people nearby, the court said.

The investigation began after reports in June 2025 that buses and public transport shelters in Vilnius were being damaged. Investigators reviewed video footage and identified J.L. as the suspected driver of the BMW, then established that D.K. was also involved. A search of D.K.’s home found an air gun and psychotropic substances.

J.L. was also convicted of stealing €6,000 from a resident of Šalčininkai. The court upheld civil claims and ordered the two men to pay more than €11,500 in damages. The ruling was not appealed and is final.