Murder and suicide in Bärnbach: Fire brigade mourns the loss of long-time comrades

Murder and suicide in Bärnbach: Fire brigade mourns the loss of long-time comrades

A terrible crime has shaken the small town of Bärnbach in western Styria. On Sunday afternoon, March 2, 2025, police and firefighters came across the bodies of two men, ages 61 and 56, in a workshop. The investigation points to a murder followed by suicide, with an ax being found at the scene. The younger one may have killed the older one with this ax before taking his own life. The exact motive for this tragedy remains unclear. An autopsy was ordered by the Graz public prosecutor's office in order to gain more clarity. How 5min.at reported, there is great sadness in the city, especially in the fire department, where the 61-year-old was known as a long-time comrade.

The Bärnbach Volunteer Fire Department is deeply affected by the loss of such a committed member. “It is with deep pain and great sadness that we say goodbye to our comrade, who was taken from life far too early at the age of 62,” the members said on their social media. The deceased had served in various capacities for over 40 years and always demonstrated exceptional commitment to the community. Tragically, the firefighter colleagues who were called to the operation to help their friend found him dead. Small newspaper further reported that the community had to cancel a planned event due to the incident and that the fire department would like to organize a sea of ​​torches as a commemorative event. This gesture shows the deep connection and pain of the comrades over the loss of a friend and colleague.

During this difficult time, various offers of help are available to support people in crisis situations. The police are also available to help people who experience or are affected by violence. A crisis intervention team will help those affected process the terrible events and offer support.