Suspect in Offenburg Murder Investigation Faces Potential Charges of Abortion
Over a week after the alleged murder of a psychotherapist in Offenburg, investigators are examining whether the suspected perpetrator, a former patient, may also be guilty of causing an abortion. According to a statement from the police and public prosecutor’s office, it is currently unknown whether the 42-year-old suspect was aware that the victim was pregnant.
Details of the Alleged Murder
On Tuesday of last week, the German suspect allegedly killed the 37-year-old woman. Based on the current investigation, it is believed that "the 42-year-old specifically sought out his victim, and the deceased, due to their previous therapeutic relationship and the associated aggression that developed, was not a random victim."
In June 2024, a risk assessment was conducted. There is currently no evidence that the suspect and the victim had any contact since then until the alleged murder.
Medical Examination Findings
Initial results of the forensic examination indicate that the victim would not have survived the stab wounds even if medical assistance had been available immediately upon her discovery at 6:30 pm.
Ongoing Investigation
The suspect’s apartment remains under investigation. Crime scene images have been captured to create a virtual representation of the scene. Specialists from the Baden-Württemberg State Criminal Police Office were present on Monday.
The investigation is expected to continue for some time. "The focus is now on reconstructing the events of the crime and establishing a conclusive link between the secured evidence and the suspect." The suspect remains in pretrial detention.
Background Information
A witness discovered the critically injured 37-year-old in the city center and alerted the police. The victim was a mother of a young child and was pregnant. She had worked in a facility for mentally ill individuals until 2023. The suspect had developed aggression towards the woman and was considered mentally unstable by authorities.
Born in France, the suspect spent a significant amount of time there and was imprisoned for a homicide offense. He has resided in Germany since 2015.
