Ax attack in Wittmund: Trial starts after life-threatening act!

Ax attack in Wittmund: Trial starts after life-threatening act!

A brutal incident causes excitement in the tranquil town of Wittmund. In June 2023, a 43-year-old local man attacked a 17-year-old boy with an ax. The attack happened late in the evening, more precisely around 11:20 p.m., on Kämmerer-Fremy-Straße. While the young victim was leaning against his car, a verbal argument broke out between the alleged perpetrator and a group of young people. Fortunately, the 17-year-old jumped aside at the right time, leaving behind a failed attack and his circle of friends, whom the attacker also threatened. This sheds light on the shocking escalation that resulted from an alleged dispute over a vehicle.

The police were alerted and were able to arrest the suspect that same night, whereupon he was brought before the magistrate at the request of the Aurich public prosecutor. He ordered pre-trial detention, so that the 43-year-old was transferred to a correctional facility. The investigation is ongoing on suspicion of attempted homicide. The collection of evidence is supported by specialists from the Central Criminal Investigation Service who secure important clues.

Court date is approaching

The case is now dragging on and will be heard on November 3, 2023 at 9 a.m. before the Aurich jury court, presided over by Judge Malte Sanders. Six witnesses and two interpreters have been invited to the first day of the trial. Another court date is scheduled for November 11th to fully clarify the case. Local authorities are concerned about increasing levels of violence in the region. Recently there have been an increasing number of incidents reported in which weapons, especially knives, played a role.

Joint measures against violence

The authorities' response to this worrying development is clear. In addition to expanded operational training for the police, equipment is also being improved; The focus is particularly on the introduction of body cameras. In addition, emphasis is placed on psychosocial support for the emergency services in order to support them in such violent confrontations. The security situation in Wittmund remains tense and everyone involved hopes that such incidents can be avoided in the future. The fight against violence has already begun.

While the city hopes for a solution, it remains to be seen how the upcoming process will unfold. The public's eyes are on the jury. The police and the Aurich public prosecutor's office are also keeping a low profile regarding the background and motives of the attacker, which further increases the uncertainty surrounding the incident. In any case, the case remains extremely explosive.

For more information about this incident, please refer to the reports from NWZonline and East Frisian courier.