International Manhunt Underway After Woman Shot in Maria Alm
An alarming incident unfolded in Maria Alm, located in the Salzburg Pinzgau region, where a woman was fatally shot in the early hours of Saturday morning. Authorities are now actively searching for the suspect, a 32-year-old Hungarian named Krisztian P., who has been the subject of an international arrest warrant.
The tragic event occurred around 12:40 AM on a parking lot in the town center, where the suspect allegedly shot his former partner, a 34-year-old German woman, during a prearranged meeting intended for the exchange of personal belongings. A witness, who observed the incident from her vehicle, quickly contacted law enforcement. Unfortunately, by the time police arrived at the scene, the suspect had fled, and the victim succumbed to her injuries.
Investigations revealed that Krisztian P. legally possessed a registered firearm, which is believed to be the weapon used in the crime. Although the police have completed their initial forensic examinations at the crime scene, detailed analysis results are still pending.
The suspect had rented a silver-grey Skoda Octavia from an online platform in Salzburg on Thursday evening, with plans to return the vehicle on Saturday night. Law enforcement has classified the vehicle as missing, as the suspect did not return it as scheduled.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Krisztian P. or the vehicle to contact the Salzburg State Criminal Police at 059133 50 3333 or any local police station. They have also issued a warning to the public to avoid any direct contact with the suspect, who may still be armed, and to report any sightings immediately.
The police continue to conduct a thorough investigation, deploying numerous uniformed and plainclothes officers throughout Salzburg and its surrounding areas in their efforts to locate the suspect.
In response to the incident, Eva-Maria Holzleitner, the Austrian Minister for Women, emphasized the urgent need for improved protections for women against violence. She stated that acts of violence against women should not be regarded as private matters but as societal issues that require collective action. The minister highlighted the necessity of making assistance more accessible, ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, and enhancing preventive measures, which are essential components of the upcoming National Action Plan.
For those affected by domestic violence, several resources are available. The police emergency number in Austria is 133, while the general emergency number is 112. Additionally, the Women's Helpline offers accessible support and crisis counseling at 0800/222 555, available 24/7. Victims seeking anonymous assistance can contact the Victim Support Hotline at 0800/112 112, where trained professionals provide help and legal advice.
Various shelters and support centers throughout Austria are also available for women and children facing domestic violence, offering safe accommodation and confidential counseling services.