Homeless murders – “This is a completely new dimension of violence”

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Viennese homeless murders are shocking. Viennese Caritas director Klaus Schwertner speaks on krone.tv about the fear that the perpetrator could strike again soon.

crown.tv: Mr. Schwertner, two dead, one injured: how do homeless people live with the dangerous situation?
Klaus Schwertner: Both those affected and our employees are very concerned. There has never been such violence against the homeless in Vienna, as well as in all of Austria. Yes, in recent years there have been isolated cases of violence or verbal abuse. But that two people were killed and one injured is a whole new level of violence.

How does the scene talk about the murders?
On the one hand, we hear that many of those affected have not noticed, because some of these people do not read conventional media, some are mentally ill or ill and therefore cannot understand what happened, and on the other hand, because there are linguistic barriers in some cases. But the uncertainty among those who noticed is great, and the question everyone is asking – including employees – is whether the perpetrator will strike again soon and who will be the next victim.

What protection options are homeless people now offered? Will the offer be further expanded?
As a first measure, we have made 90 extra beds available at 5 locations. We are currently in consultation with the police, in which further measures will be taken. What we would find important is that extra street work teams take to the streets to inform people and to help if necessary.

What is your advice to the Viennese – how can they help?
The call is very urgent to keep your eyes and ears open. On the one hand, this means reporting suspicious sightings to the police. On the other hand, if homeless people are spotted, call Caritas so we can help.

Watch the full interview in the video above!

Source: Krone

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