Cross posted from https://hexbear.net/post/8653014

KENTUCKY MAN ACCUSED OF STABBING, DISMEMBERING & MUTILATING UNHOUSED MAN — WANTED TO “HUNT HOMELESS PEOPLE”

THE SUSPECT

Michael Hristov, 21.

THE VICTIM

Michael Howard, an unhoused man. He was stabbed, dismembered, and had satanic symbols carved into his body. His genitals and several toes were removed. He was found nude in a homeless encampment in Louisville, Kentucky.

WHAT HAPPENED

Howard was killed on December 24, 2025. His body was discovered two days later. Hristov is also linked to the nonfatal stabbing of another unhoused man on Christmas Day 2025.

Evidence against Hristov includes surveillance footage, his scooter, a backpack containing the victim’s DNA, a Reddit post made from his IP address about a serial killer, and an iCloud photo of a severed toe.

THE MOTIVE / STATEMENTS

Hristov had expressed a desire to “hunt homeless people,” showed a fascination with serial killers, and idolized mass shooters. He also allegedly tortured animals.

AFTERMATH

Hristov was indicted on May 13, 2026, for murder, abuse of a corpse, and assault. The next day, during a SWAT standoff, he called 911 saying he was armed and wanted officers to shoot him. He was later killed in an officer-involved shooting after refusing to drop his weapon.

The investigation into possible additional victims is ongoing.