Shots Fired at Burglar in Salzburg: 29-Year-Old Dead

The deceased is a 29-year-old Hungarian. His partner of the same age - who is also from Hungary - was temporarily arrested by the police. The public prosecutor's office has ordered an autopsy of the body.

The incident occurred shortly before 4:00 PM in the Gnigl district. According to the police, the Hungarian and his companion are believed to have broken into the house with a garden. The 66-year-old resident told investigators that he became aware of the two burglars inside the house. He was threatened with a knife by the 29-year-old, whereupon he defended himself with his handgun. The shooter reportedly claimed self-defense. He is said to have called the emergency services himself and is currently at liberty.

Hungarian Taken to Hospital

It is not yet clear how many shots the 66-year-old fired, but three are being reported. The Hungarian was treated by an emergency doctor and taken to a hospital, but his injuries were too severe. The homeowner legally owned the weapon. The State Criminal Police Office has taken over the questioning of those involved and witnesses, as well as the investigation of the incident. According to current information, there was no danger to uninvolved parties at any time, the police reported.

Legal Steps?

The homeowner may now face legal action. Investigations for bodily harm resulting in death are possible. The APA was initially unable to reach the Salzburg public prosecutor's office on Friday regarding this matter. However, the man claimed to have acted in self-defense. This refers to the right to defend oneself or another against a "current or immediately threatening unlawful attack on life, health, physical integrity, sexual integrity and self-determination, freedom, or property," as stated in the penal code. Under certain circumstances, the homeowner may then remain unpunished. However, the action is not justified by law if it is obvious that the attacked person is only threatened with a minor disadvantage or has used an obviously inappropriate defense.

If the defensive actions exceed the measure of self-defense, it is considered an excess of self-defense. This means that the defensive measures were disproportionate or no longer necessary to fend off the attack. If the attacked person acts out of consternation, fear, or shock, punishment for an intentional act may be waived, but punishment for negligent commission of the offense is possible. This must now be legally clarified in light of the reported threefold shooting by the homeowner.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.