Half Lives is a series dedicated to telling the stories of the people who were involved in history's nuclear accidents, from their birth, to the mishap, and their life following. These lives are often mixed up with lies, rumors and controversies. This is their true story.

Leonid Toptunov was the Senior Reactor Control Engineer (SIUR) for Unit Four on the fifth shift, the shift that oversaw the turbine rundown ultimately leading to the destruction of Unit Four. Unbeknownst to many, it was in fact Toptunov who pressed the infamous AZ-5 button that night.

But how, at just twenty-five-years-old, did he reach such a position, and how was his life ultimately stolen by his own sacrifice? Is Toptunov ultimately guilty for the explosion as many believe? This video examines his story from beginning to end and more, to determine whether or not this guilt is warranted.

I hope you enjoy the video.