13-Year-Old Killed in Farmington Hit-and-Run Identified as Sasha Balandin; Community Rallies as Search for Driver Continues
Provided by GoFundMe.
Published: July 15, 2026 | Updated: July 15, 2026 at 4:20 pm.
FARMINGTON, MN — The 13-year-old boy who was tragically killed in a hit-and-run crash while riding his bicycle Tuesday night has been identified by his family as Sasha Balandin, a beloved Apple Valley teenager remembered for his compassion, generosity, and love for his family.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 9:44 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the intersection of Minnesota Highway 50 and Dushane Parkway, near the McDonald's in Farmington.
According to the Farmington Police Department, a preliminary investigation determined that two juvenile boys were crossing Highway 50 on bicycles when a westbound vehicle struck one of them before fleeing the scene without stopping.
Despite wearing a helmet and the immediate life-saving efforts of bystanders, Farmington police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, Sasha died at the scene.
Family Shares Tribute to Sasha
A GoFundMe created with the permission of Sasha's family paints the picture of a remarkable young man whose kindness far exceeded his years. His parents, Evgeniy and Elena Balandin, along with his older brother Ivan and younger sister Vera, are now facing what organizers describe as an unimaginable loss.
While donations from the fundraiser will help cover funeral and memorial expenses, lost income, and other unexpected costs, the page also serves as a heartfelt tribute to Sasha's life.
According to the fundraiser, Sasha loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing and mountain biking. He enjoyed collecting old coins, Pokémon, and surprising his family by cooking meals. He dreamed of becoming a mechanic one day and hoped to live on a farm. Family members say his greatest joy, however, came from caring for the people he loved.
The fundraiser describes the close relationship Sasha shared with his older brother, Ivan, whom he admired deeply. One of his favorite daily traditions was riding home from school with Ivan and stopping at a local bodega to get his favorite horchata. Sasha was also incredibly proud to celebrate Ivan's graduation alongside him.
His bond with his younger sister, Vera, was equally special. Organizers wrote that Sasha naturally took on the role of protector, making sure she always had something to eat while their parents worked—even ordering food for her himself if needed.
The fundraiser also describes Sasha as having a "servant's heart," explaining that whenever his mother wasn't feeling well, he would stop what he was doing to pray for her. Those who knew him remember a young man who genuinely wanted others to feel cared for and happy.
The family says although Sasha's life ended far too soon, the love and kindness he shared will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.
Provided by GoFundMe.
Police Release Suspect Vehicle Information
As the community mourns Sasha's death, investigators continue working to identify the driver responsible. Following an examination of evidence recovered at the crash scene, including the passenger-side exterior mirror, the Farmington Police Department now believes the suspect vehicle is a:
Black 2008–2011 Ford Focus
With front-end damage
Passenger-side damage
Missing the passenger-side exterior mirror
Investigators say recovering multiple vehicle parts allowed them to narrow down the make, model, and model years of the suspect vehicle.
"This remains an active investigation, and we are committed to doing everything we can to identify the driver and hold them accountable," the Farmington Police Department said.
Public Asked to Help
Police continue to ask for the public's assistance and urge anyone with information to come forward.
Investigators are looking for anyone who:
Witnessed the crash.
Has dash camera or surveillance footage from the area around 9:44 p.m. Tuesday.
Has seen a black 2008–2011 Ford Focus with recent front-end or passenger-side damage.
Has any information that could help identify the vehicle or the driver.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Farmington Police Department at 651-280-6700. Investigators stress that even seemingly minor details could prove critical in identifying the vehicle and the person responsible.
Community Support
A GoFundMe established with the family's permission is accepting donations to help the Balandin family during this incredibly difficult time. Organizers say contributions will help ease the financial burden of funeral expenses, time away from work, and other unexpected costs, allowing the family to focus on grieving and honoring Sasha's life.
Those unable to donate are encouraged to share the fundraiser and keep the Balandin family in their thoughts and prayers.
The investigation into the fatal hit-and-run remains ongoing, and Farmington police say additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Written By: Will Wight
