Dispute over gambling debts escalates: arson attack in Klagenfurt!

Dispute over gambling debts escalates: arson attack in Klagenfurt!

In a dramatic incident in Klagenfurt on Sunday, September 29, 2025, around 6:40 p.m., two men were seriously injured when a 54-year-old set fire to a lounge. The arson attack, which arose out of a dispute over gambling debts, left a total of six injured, including two men aged 52 and 55 who had to be put into artificial deep sleep due to the severe burns. The 55-year-old was flown to the Graz University Hospital by emergency helicopter.

Fortunately, all those affected who were in the lounge at the time were able to escape outside. Another four men aged 45 to 62 suffered minor injuries. Both the Klagenfurt professional fire department and the rescue service were involved in the rescue measures. The suspected perpetrator remained at the scene and was arrested. However, due to his moderate level of alcohol, he was initially inaudible. The investigation is being conducted by the criminal investigation department of the Klagenfurt City Police Command in order to clarify the exact background to the incident.

Cause of the incident

How Small newspaper According to reports, the dispute over gambling debts escalated into a violent act in which the accused spilled gasoline from a canister and set the room on fire. It is known that those involved met regularly to play poker, which, given the violent nature of the dispute, indicates the strained relationship between the men.
Loud 5min.at The lounge was occupied by a total of eight people at the time of the crime.

Context to violent crime

This incident can be placed in a larger context of violent crime, which according to current police crime statistics BKA rose 1.5% to 217,277 cases in 2024, the highest level since 2007. An increase in violent crime could require preventive measures in the community and addressing social conflicts. The increase in the number of children and young people suspected of committing crimes is particularly worrying, which raises questions about the social conditions of these age groups.

In this sense, the arson attack in Klagenfurt could be viewed not only as an isolated incident, but also as part of a worrying trend in society that should be urgently addressed.