Brutal tragedy in Vienna-Hernals: Husband kills 62-year-old woman

Brutal tragedy in Vienna-Hernals: Husband kills 62-year-old woman

A shocking incident occurred in Vienna-Hernals on Friday morning when a 62-year-old woman was brutally attacked and ultimately killed by her husband. Residents were alerted by loud screams coming from an apartment on Balderichgasse around 9 a.m.

A witness who calls herself Lisa reported that she initially thought the screams were coming from a child or a dog. When she realized they were cries for help, she rushed outside. “I heard someone shout, ‘You son of a bitch, stop it!’” she recalled. The 66-year-old suspect apparently hit his wife with a wooden stick, which ultimately led to the fatal attack.

The dramatic deployment of the police

Police arrived at the scene just minutes after the first screams. The husband opened the door for the police officers and allowed himself to be arrested without resistance. Meanwhile, the situation became increasingly dramatic: When an officer called out that “a defibrillator” was needed, those present realized that the situation was life-threatening. Unfortunately, rescue workers left the house without the woman, confirming the neighbors' worst fears. Despite attempts to resuscitate her immediately, the 62-year-old died.

Reactions from the neighborhood

The neighbors were shocked by what happened. Lisa reported that she saw the suspect as he was being taken away by the police. “He looked composed,” she said. Although many neighbors have lived in the area for a long time, there were no previous signs of domestic violence in the couple's marriage. A neighbor who was called to help said the perpetrator appeared to react calmly when police asked about his wife. Investigations are ongoing into the identity of the possible weapon used and the man's previous history. According to the spokesman for the State Criminal Police Office, many details are still unknown and are currently being investigated. This incident is particularly concerning as it increases the number of femicides in Austria to 22 this year, compared to 23 cases last year. This is a worrying trend that continues to fuel discussions about women's safety in the country.

The investigation is in full swing and the State Criminal Police Office is actively involved. The neighbors have already given their statements to the police and it remains to be seen what further information will come to light from this tragic incident. For more information, see the current reporting on www.5min.at.