Start of trial in Tyrol

Leon case: father suspected of murder in the dock

Almost two years ago, little Leon was rescued dead from the Kitzbühel Ache. The trial into the tragic drowning of the six-year-old will now begin on Wednesday. According to the public prosecutor's office, it was murder - by the boy's father, who is in the dock.

The case also caused a stir beyond Austria's borders: the now 39-year-old went for a walk with his son in August 2022. That was the only thing that could calm Leon down - he was terminally ill. In the early hours of the morning, passers-by found the father lying on the ground next to the empty baby carriage; his son was found lifeless on a sandbank an hour later.

A cruel robbery attempt - according to the German. However, the father himself quickly became the focus of the investigation; at the end of February 2023, the bombshell: he was arrested! He has been in custody ever since.

Criticism of the investigative work
The public prosecutor's office in Innsbruck finally brought murder charges against the 39-year-old at the end of April. The German also has to answer for suspicion of faking a punishable offense. If convicted, he faces up to life imprisonment. The defense recently waived its objection to the charges.

His lawyers also repeatedly and publicly criticized the investigative work of the police and the State Office of Criminal Investigation as well as the public prosecutor's office. The prosecution, for its part, sharply rejected the accusations.

The trial takes place in the jury courtroom.(Bild: Christof Birbaumer)

Three trial days planned
In a three-day trial (Wednesday, Thursday and August 1) at the Innsbruck Regional Court, it will now be clarified whether the suspected father murdered his six-year-old son.

No fewer than 25 witnesses are to testify. Four experts will give their opinions - two forensic experts, an IT expert and a neurological-psychiatric expert.

Great media interest in murder trial
The trial is attracting considerable media interest. Almost 25 representatives from Austria and Germany will be attending the trial.

The accused 39-year-old has already communicated in advance through his defense lawyer that he will not plead guilty, and he is also sharply critical of the prosecution's presentation of evidence. A verdict is scheduled for August 1.