Protest on October 24, 2025, for a Life Sentence After a Fatal Crash Near Pleven

Today, in front of the Supreme Court of Cassation (SCC) in Sofia, a protest is being held demanding a life sentence for the driver responsible for a car crash that claimed the lives of three people near Pleven. The tragic incident occurred on July 20, 2023, resulting in three deaths. The driver, G. Tachev, was driving without a license and under the influence of alcohol, with 11 previous criminal offenses on record. At both first and second court instances, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, but the victims’ families are insisting on a life sentence.

Relatives of the deceased state that the tragedy could have been prevented if the perpetrator had been imprisoned earlier for his numerous previous offenses. The offender is described as an individual of exceptionally high public danger, displaying repeated unlawful behavior and complete disregard for the rule of law. They emphasize that driving without a license, under the influence of alcohol, and with multiple prior convictions makes this case one of extreme public danger. The main demand of the victims’ families and protesters is a fair court decision—specifically, the imposition of a life sentence, which would be the first of its kind in Bulgaria for a fatal traffic accident.

Under Bulgarian criminal law, imprisonment is allowed for causing death by negligence, but life imprisonment has not been traditionally applied in road traffic cases. Today’s protest highlights the need for a stricter judicial response in cases involving multiple victims and clear public danger. Protesters insist that public outrage should lead to real legal reform and consistent judicial practice.

This case symbolizes the growing public dissatisfaction with road safety and the perceived lack of justice in severe traffic accidents. If a life sentence is imposed, it could set a legal precedent and strengthen the preventive effect of criminal law. The protest also stresses the need for stronger judicial and administrative action against individuals with multiple violations and reckless driving behavior.

The protest is expected to continue throughout the day, with media coverage and possible institutional reactions. The victims’ families have stated they will follow the court proceedings until the end and demand the maximum penalty allowed by law. Future steps may include legislative proposals, tighter control, and stricter judicial practice for similar cases.