A horrific act of violence has shocked the small town of Lemgo in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. On Monday evening, a 16-year-old boy was fatally attacked inside a local Edeka supermarket, allegedly by a 33-year-old man.
According to police reports, the attack occurred around 8:30 p.m. near the checkout area. The suspect, identified as Tobias M., is said to have confronted the teenager, Julius L., before pulling out a knife. Witnesses told investigators that the assailant stabbed the boy in the chest and head.
Victim died at the scene despite rescue attempts
Emergency responders and several shoppers rushed to provide first aid, but the teenager succumbed to his severe injuries at the scene. “Despite immediate life-saving measures, the victim could not be revived,” police confirmed in a brief statement.
The attacker reportedly did not resist arrest. Officers detained him at the scene shortly after the assault. According to local media, the suspect is known to police and has a history of drug dependency.
Dispute may have begun outside the store
Preliminary investigations suggest that the two may have crossed paths earlier in the supermarket parking lot. The teenager, who had arrived on his motor scooter, apparently got into a dispute with the suspect, who allegedly felt “disturbed” by the noise or the situation.
Investigators believe the suspect followed the victim into the store, where the confrontation escalated into a deadly knife attack at the checkout.
Crime scene still closed on Tuesday morning
On Tuesday, the Edeka market remained closed as forensics teams examined the scene. A police cordon and evidence tents were still visible outside the entrance. Inside, investigators continued to secure traces of blood and collect video surveillance footage.
Next to the supermarket entrance, a blue motor scooter believed to belong to the victim was also examined by forensic teams wearing protective suits.
Police establish “Kasse” homicide unit
Authorities in Lippe district have set up a special homicide task force codenamed “Kasse” (cash register) to handle the case. The suspect is currently in custody and will undergo psychiatric and toxicological assessments.
“The investigation is ongoing,” a police spokesperson said. “Based on current evidence, the 16-year-old suffered fatal injuries caused by a knife.”
Residents of Lemgo have expressed shock and disbelief over the senseless killing in what is normally a quiet community. The town plans a memorial vigil later this week in remembrance of the victim.
