Investigation Launched Following Multiple Grave Desecrations in Vienna

The Vienna Police Department is currently investigating a series of grave desecrations that have affected several cemeteries across the city. Reports indicate that at least 60 incidents have been documented, predominantly in the districts of Simmering, Floridsdorf, and Donaustadt. Authorities suspect that a single group may be responsible for these acts, as the methods employed in the various cases appear to be consistent.

Investigators are pursuing charges related to serious property damage, disturbance of the peace of the dead, and burglary. In each reported case, a thorough examination of the crime scenes has been conducted, including the collection of video surveillance footage. However, securing usable evidence has proven challenging due to the nature of the locations involved.

Cooperation with cemetery management is central to the ongoing investigation. While the identities of the grave owners have not been disclosed for tactical and privacy reasons, authorities have not yet confirmed whether any thefts occurred in conjunction with the desecrations. A spokesperson for the police indicated that this information remains part of the active investigation.

Between February 13 and 19, additional incidents were reported at the Stammersdorf Central Cemetery in Floridsdorf, where three crypts were forcibly opened. Investigators are currently assessing whether these recent events are connected to the earlier cases from the previous year.

The police urge anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward and assist in the investigation. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in and around cemetery areas.