Police Captain Dmytro Petrenko was killed on 12 July 2024 while performing his duties in the city of Novohrodivka. That day, a Russian drone struck the police service vehicle. The officer was 38 years old forever.
Dmytro was born in the city of Dobropillia. He obtained a full higher education. His service in law enforcement began in 2006 as a police dog handler. From 2015, he served in preventive units, ensuring public order in the Novohrodivka and Selydove communities. Most recently, he worked as a community police officer of the Community Policing Sector of the Pokrovsk District Police Department of the National Police in Donetsk region.
When the full-scale invasion began, Dmytro actively participated in rescuing people. Together with the military and emergency service workers, he responded to shelling sites, cleared debris, helped the injured, and transported them to hospitals. He also carried out the evacuation of civilians. Under fire and at the risk of his own life, he delivered medicines, food, and essential supplies to people.
“My husband bravely defended Ukraine from the enemy until his last breath,” his wife Yuliia wrote.
Dmytro Petrenko was laid to rest at the Alley of Glory in Dobropillia.
Posthumously, the police captain was awarded the Order “For Bravery” (III Class) and the distinction “For the Defense of Ukraine.”
He is survived by his wife, a son, and a daughter.
At 9:00 — a nationwide moment of silence. The Donetsk Regional Military Administration and the “Memorial of Heroes” platform honour the residents of Donetsk region killed by Russia.