Three murders were committed in Austria within 24 hours. In two cases, women were victims of the perpetrator. And in both cases it was the partner. 74 percent of femicides in Austria are committed by the victims’ (ex-)partners.
This is what the results of a study by the “Institute for Conflict Research” say, which examined femicides in Austria. In about 30 percent of these murders, divorce was the deciding factor. The exact background to the actions of the past 24 hours is currently largely unclear.
Three murders
A nurse who was probably under the influence of drugs at the time of the crime stabbed an 82-year-old man on Thursday evening. In Liesing, Vienna, a 63-year-old allegedly stabbed his wife and then attempted suicide, but was saved. On Friday, a man allegedly stabbed his wife and then jumped out of the window. He did not survive the jump.
In another 30 percent of cases of femicide or attempted femicide, there was a history of violence, sometimes lasting years. About a quarter of the victims had already reported their violent (ex) partner. About ten percent of the perpetrators had already been convicted of violence against their (ex) partner.
Detect high-risk cases earlier
The study also evaluated high-risk indicators in offenders, which would be important to recognize in prevention. About 47 percent had mental health conditions and about a third had ‘traumatic experiences’, including job loss. The same number had already committed physical and sexual violence, and over a quarter had committed psychological violence. Other common factors include gun ownership (22 percent) and patriarchal thinking (about 20 percent).
When comparing the periods 2010 with 2016 and 2017 with 2020, it became clear that more and more legal firearms were used: initially only about one in four firearms used was legal, but in the last four years of the study period this share was legal. 46.6 percent.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
