The drama apparently never ends in this case! Five-year-old Dominik from Linz is said to have been all alone in his parents’ apartment before he fell fatally from the window. In this context, the Public Prosecution Service is now investigating the mother and her partner. An autopsy of the dead boy was also ordered.
Where exactly were the mother and her partner when little Dominik fell to his death from the window of the nursery on the fourth floor of his parents’ apartment in Linz on Saturday afternoon?
According to information from Krone, both supervisors were walking at the time. The five-year-old was probably alone in the apartment, which was apparently locked from the outside. The mother and her partner have not yet been able to be questioned about this and were still under psychiatric care on Monday.
Up to three years in prison
“We are investigating murder due to gross negligence,” emphasizes Ulrike Breiteneder, spokeswoman for the Linz public prosecutor’s office. The maximum penalty for this is three years in prison.
The Public Prosecution Service has also ordered an autopsy. “This is a preventative measure to protect everyone involved in a proceeding.” In this way it can be proven beyond any doubt that Dominik’s death was a result of the fall.
It should also be clarified whether the window was already open for ventilation or whether the boy opened it independently. “The evidence has yet to be fully processed.”
Every four weeks a child falls out of a window
The tragic case of little Dominik is currently shocking not only the neighbors in the Linz apartment complex, but the entire country. Unfortunately, window falls are becoming more common.
“On average, a child under the age of 15 falls out of a window every four weeks in Austria,” explains Johanna Trauner-Karner, head of the leisure safety department at the Board of Directors for Road Safety (KFV).
Fortunately, most falls end lightly. In 2022 there were 18 injured children nationwide (eight in Upper Austria), the year before there were seven injured and one dead child (one injured in Upper Austria).
Fall protection for cats is mandatory
“It is strange that we need protective equipment suitable for cats against falling on windows and balconies. “But there are no comparable regulations for children,” criticizes Trauner-Karner.
She therefore calls on people with children in the household to take protective measures. “Sturdy window grilles are the most effective prevention method.”
Window handles that can be locked with keys are also useful – and also cost-saving: “These are quick and easy to install.” In addition, furniture should never be placed in front of windows. “Otherwise they are used as climbing aids.”
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.
