Trial Begins for Ex-Boyfriend in Altona ‘Body in the Closet’ Case
Hamburg, February 26, 2026 – The trial of a 37-year-old man, accused of manslaughter in connection with the discovery of his ex-girlfriend’s body in a closet in Hamburg-Altona in November 2024, began today at the Hamburg Regional Court.
Police found the body of the 34-year-old woman, wrapped in a carpet, in a wardrobe in her ground-floor apartment in Altona. Neighbors had alerted the authorities due to unpleasant odors emanating from the apartment. The woman had been killed and had suffered severe head injuries.
No Signs of Forced Entry Point to Acquaintance
As there were no signs of forced entry, police quickly suspected that the victim had allowed her assailant into the apartment, suggesting the perpetrator was likely an acquaintance. However, it took nearly ten months before the alleged perpetrator was arrested: her ex-boyfriend, who is also the father of their shared son. The child was living with him at the time of the arrest.
Wine Bottle Suspected as Weapon
The public prosecutor’s office believes that the 37-year-old killed the woman during an argument. He is alleged to have struck her forcefully on the head with a wine bottle. The ex-boyfriend made a statement during the investigation, but no confession has been made. The Regional Court has scheduled hearings until the end of May.
Previous Reports on the Case:
- November 2024: Police found the body of a 34-year-old woman in a closet in Hamburg-Altona.
- Subsequent investigation: The autopsy confirmed the woman had been killed.
- Arrest: A 36-year-old suspect (now 37) was arrested in connection with the case.
The case has drawn significant attention in Hamburg, highlighting concerns about domestic violence and the safety of individuals within their own homes. The trial is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and the alleged involvement of her ex-partner.
The Hamburg Regional Court will continue to hear evidence and testimonies over the coming weeks, with a verdict anticipated by the end of May. The community awaits the outcome of this somber case, hoping for justice for the victim.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/leiche-im-schrank-in-altona-staatsanwaltschaft-klagt-ex-freund-an,altona-110.html
