The alleged gunman in Copenhagen, who allegedly killed three people and injured several in a shopping center on Sunday evening, was “known to the psychiatrist”, according to police. The 22-year-old will spend his pre-trial detention in a closed psychiatric ward.
According to research by the broadcaster DR, the man would have tried to reach a crisis hotline for the crime. During the pre-trial detention, the mental state of the suspect is checked. However, details about its history are not yet known. The motive for the crime is still unclear. But terror should not be behind it.
Debate on abuses in psychiatry
Given the suspect’s medical history, a debate has flared over how the country should deal with the mentally ill. “You can make all kinds of assumptions: was the perpetrator mentally ill? Was he in psychiatry? Did he ask for help but was not understood?” psychiatry professor Poul Videbech from the University of Copenhagen said on Danish television on Tuesday. In order to avoid a repetition of such an act, a thorough investigation must be carried out into what preceded it: “Out of respect for the victims, the relatives – and in this way for all of us – we must learn the maximum from such a terrible story” . , emphasized Videbech.
According to estimates by the chairman of the Danish Psychiatric Association, psychiatric professor Merete Nordentoft, about a third more staff would be needed in psychiatry to provide proper care for the mentally ill. “I agree with those who think the system is under so much pressure that things like this can happen,” said the professor.
Crime Scene Memorial Event
On Tuesday evening, crowds of people gathered in the streets in front of the crime scene, which has to be cordoned off until midnight, to commemorate the victims of the killing. The Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen and the Mayor of Copenhagen Sophie Hæstorp Andersen want to make speeches there. There will also be a choir singing. “Come and show your support,” Copenhagen City Council wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
