Local News

911 Recordings Detail Events Leading Up to Murders in Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota. Recently released 911 recordings provide insight into a multiple homicide case that spanned Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota. A concerned daughter contacted authorities about her mother, leading police to discover the bodies of Larisa Blyudaya and her son in Victoria Park. The suspect, Russell Kot, is accused of also killing three more relatives in Sarasota. The recordings help illustrate how concerns about an acquaintance led to rapid police intervention and the discovery of the victims. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 13) West Broward Sarasota, FL

Multiple Homicides in Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota Leave Family Grieving. A tragic series of shootings in Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota resulted in six fatalities across two cities. Larisa Blyudaya and her son Ben Azivov were found shot in their Fort Lauderdale apartment after a welfare check. Authorities allege Russell Kot, temporarily staying with Blyudaya, also killed three of her relatives and a family friend in Sarasota before dying of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedies. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 12) West Broward Sarasota, FL

Fort Lauderdale Double Homicide Connected to Sarasota Multiple Shooting Deaths. Authorities report that a double homicide in Fort Lauderdale has been linked to a subsequent shooting in Sarasota that resulted in five additional deaths, including the suspected perpetrator. Investigations suggest the suspect had a personal relationship with one of the Fort Lauderdale victims, who in turn was associated with the Sarasota victims. Law enforcement officers assure that the incidents appear isolated and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Details on the motive remain undisclosed. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 11) West Broward Sarasota, FL

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