Messer attack in Vienna-Ottakring: 19-year-old arrested!

Messer attack in Vienna-Ottakring: 19-year-old arrested!

On Wednesday afternoon, April 24, 2025, there was a violent incident between two Romanians on Thaliastraße in Vienna-Ottakring, at the age of 19 and 22, which had known each other for a long time. The trigger for the escalation was a dispute over alleged denominational comments by the 22-year-old, who violated the 19-year-old in his honor. The conflict took a dramatic turn when the younger man hit his counterpart in his face and then pulled a knife to get on him.

The 22-year-old was able to ward off the attack and fled from the crime scene. He finally informed the police and gave a detailed description of the attacker. A short time later, the 19-year-old was temporarily arrested by the emergency services on Thaliastraße. During the search, the officials found a jumping knife that probably served as a murder weapon and cannabis. As a result, a temporary ban on weapons was imposed against the 19-year-old and charges were raised due to attempted deliberate serious bodily harm and according to the Lawyum Act. He was brought to a prison.

increasing violent crime in Vienna

This incident is not isolated, but reflects a worrying trend in the region. In 2024, several heavy knife attacks were recorded in Ottakring. The crime statistics show an increase in violent crimes, especially among young adults. According to reports, there were a total of 959 violent crimes with stab weapons in Vienna in 2022, which corresponds to an increase of 17 percent compared to the previous year. For 2023, a further increase in the knife attacks is predicted, the detailed evaluation of which is currently still in the analysis.

The increasing number of knife attacks not only affects the victims, but also on society as a whole. Experts pointed out the increased willingness to violence, which stirs up fear and uncertainty among the population. This leads to a considerable pressure on public security services, which always get into dangerous situations. Initial measures to improve the situation include increased training for police officers, the use of protective vests and de -escalation techniques in training.

The social and individual consequences of knife power

The consequences of knife power are considerable, both for those affected and for society. Victims often suffer from physical and psychological consequences, which result from serious injuries, as well as emotional stress by the family members concerned. Statistics show that this violence leaves a deep impression, both in the individual and collective memory.

To combat this problem, extensive approaches are necessary. These include educational campaigns, educational programs and social support services that aim to reduce violence in society. The established cooperation between the police, politics and civil society is considered essential to find sustainable solutions.

For more information about knife attacks and their social effects, read more on Campus Security .