An 86-year-old woman has died and two other residents, both in their 80s, have been injured following a knife attack at a care home in Germany's Münsterland region.
On Friday, residents of the St Vitus-Stift retirement home were eating dinner together around 7pm when a 72-year-old man violently assaulted three fellow residents. The unnamed man, who uses a wheelchair, is reported to have stabbed one person in the neck before continuing his rampage.
Victims and response
Police discovered the 86-year-old in the canteen. She was pronounced dead at the scene after sustaining severe stab wounds. An 83-year-old resident was taken to hospital and fought for her life overnight, but by this morning police said her condition had stabilised. A third resident, aged 81, was seriously injured and remains hospitalised in North Rhine-Westphalia.
As reported by Bild, two rescue helicopters arrived at the care home and airlifted both injured women to the University Hospital.
Suspect's surrender and investigation
Following the stabbing spree, the assailant is said to have returned to his room at the home before surrendering without resistance. He told investigators afterwards that he washed the weapon and placed it in a drawer, where officers later found it.
A homicide unit is now investigating the incident. It is currently unclear what the nature of the man's relationship with the three women was, nor is it known where the knife came from.
Motive and facility details
Local media added that the man told police he felt 'bullied' for several years, reportedly seeking 'revenge' on other residents. He has been admitted to a psychiatric hospital and is under police guard before appearing in front of a judge.
St Vitus-Stift houses 77 elderly people with various health impairments who need care. The building is attached to an assisted living facility comprising 36 barrier-free apartments, while group homes onsite house residents with dementia.
