Stairs and escalators lead to the platforms at the Kaiserslautern train station. The Kaiserslautern prosecutor’s office has charged a woman in a death following a June stabbing at the station. The altercation that led to the stabbing began at the bottom of an escalator. (Ann Pinson/Stars and Stripes)
The Kaiserslautern prosecutor’s office has charged a 20-year-old American woman with bodily harm resulting in death following the investigation of a stabbing at the Kaiserslautern train station in June, according to a statement from chief prosecutor Udo Gehring published Monday.
According to Gehring, the accused stabbed a 64-year-old man during an altercation resulting from the man grabbing the woman’s buttocks.
After a verbal exchange, the 20-year-old pulled out a folding knife and pursued the victim as he backed away, Gehring said. The man grabbed the woman’s arm, she freed herself and she stabbed the man once, hitting his heart, according to the statement.
The prosecutor’s office agrees with the woman’s claim that she didn’t intentionally aim for the victim’s heart, Gehring said.
“The charge of bodily harm resulting in death requires intent only with regard to the bodily harm and (only) negligence with regard to the death,” according to Monday’s statement.
Gehring added the woman also claims she acted in self-defense.
The accused, who was born in Germany and is an American citizen, is not affiliated with the U.S. military, according to both German and U.S. officials.
The youth chamber of the Kaiserslautern regional court will now decide whether or not to bring the case to trial.
December 2, 2024 16:17
