29/05/2026
Stalker Who Couldnโt Accept Breakup Jailed for Life After Brutal Murder of Ex-Partner
A man who brutally murdered his former partner after becoming obsessed with her new relationship has been sentenced to life imprisonment following a Metropolitan Police investigation.
Yurii Muzyka, 34, from New Malden, was convicted of murder and possession of an offensive weapon. On 29 May 2026, he was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 30 years.
The victim, 29-year-old Halyna Hoisan, had spent months trying to rebuild her life after escaping what prosecutors described as an abusive and controlling relationship. In April 2025, she moved away from Muzyka and later secured legal protection after enduring months of stalking and harassment.
Despite the separation, detectives said Muzyka became increasingly obsessed with Halyna and refused to accept the end of their relationship. Investigators uncovered evidence showing he monitored her movements, repeatedly appeared at places linked to her and attempted to maintain control over her life.
Halyna had previously discovered a tracking device hidden on the scooter of their four-year-old daughter. Police also found evidence that Muzyka stole her phone and made threats towards members of her family.
Just one week before the killing, on 20 August 2025, Halyna successfully obtained a non-molestation order in an effort to protect herself. However, prosecutors said the order failed to stop Muzykaโs escalating behaviour.
Digital evidence recovered from his devices revealed disturbing searches involving surveillance equipment, knives, masks and human anatomy in the days leading up to the attack. Detectives said the material clearly demonstrated premeditation.
On 27 August 2025, Muzyka bought a knife before travelling to Halynaโs flat in Greenwich.
Later that evening, Halyna was at home with another man when Muzyka arrived at the property. Enraged that she had moved on with her life, he forced his way inside by kicking down the front door before launching a violent attack that left her with fatal injuries.
Emergency services were called to the flat shortly after 10.20pm, where officers found Halyna critically injured inside the property. Tragically, the coupleโs four-year-old daughter was asleep in another room during the incident.
Following the attack, Muzyka harmed himself and was taken to hospital.
Further evidence discovered during the investigation included video recordings filmed by Muzyka after the killing, as well as messages in which he complained about Halyna seeing other men. CCTV footage also tracked his movements throughout the day and supported the prosecutionโs case that the murder had been carefully planned.
During police interviews, Muzyka attempted to shift blame onto Halyna, refusing to accept responsibility for his actions.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Franklin described the murder as a horrifying act of cruelty that devastated an entire family and robbed a young child of her mother.
In a statement, Halynaโs family described her as a loving daughter, mother and friend whose life was taken in a senseless act of violence. They thanked detectives and prosecutors for securing justice while asking for privacy as they continue to grieve.
The tragic case has once again raised serious concerns about stalking, coercive control and domestic abuse, with many questioning whether stronger protections are needed for victims even after court orders are granted.
