Serbian Man Accused of Attempted Murder of Ex-Wife in Switzerland

A 43-year-old Serbian man is currently on trial in Lucerne, Switzerland for the alleged attempted murder of his ex-wife in April 2021. According to prosecutors, the man sprayed his former spouse with brake cleaner and tried to set her on fire, before repeatedly stabbing her as she attempted to flee the attack. The couple's son, who was present during the violent incident, managed to escape the apartment unharmed.

The defendant denies stabbing his ex-wife, claiming his intention was to discuss unresolved property issues in their native Serbia. However, the prosecution is seeking an 8-year prison sentence, along with court-ordered inpatient psychiatric treatment and a 15-year ban from Switzerland. They cite the man's diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia and history of violent behavior as key factors in their sentencing request.

Why this matters: Domestic violence and attempted murder cases highlight the ongoing need for effective prevention measures, victim support services, and appropriate legal consequences for perpetrators. The presence of mental health issues in such cases also underscores the importance of accessible treatment and monitoring to ensure public safety.

As the trial continues, the court is reviewing the harrowing details of the case, including testimony from the victim and witnesses. The prosecutor emphasized the severity of the attack, stating, "The accused acted with the intention of killing his wife. Only the intervention of the son prevented something worse from happening." A verdict in the case is expected in the coming weeks, as the Swiss court system seeks to deliver justice and protect the safety of the victim and the public.

Key Takeaways

• Serbian man on trial in Switzerland for attempted murder of ex-wife
• Accused of spraying ex-wife with brake cleaner and stabbing her
• Prosecution seeks 8-year sentence, psychiatric treatment, and 15-year ban
• Defendant claims intent was to discuss property issues, denies stabbing
• Case highlights need for domestic violence prevention and mental health support