A 39-year-old doctor in Berlin has been arrested on suspicion of killing four elderly patients and attempting to cover up the evidence by setting fires at their homes, authorities revealed on Wednesday. The doctor, who was part of a nursing service's palliative care team, has been ordered to remain in custody pending a possible indictment.
The suspect is accused of killing four patients who were under the care of the nursing service in June and July. The exact method of the alleged killings is still under investigation. The suspect also attempted to set fires in the victims' apartments, with varying degrees of success.
The series of incidents began on June 11 when firefighters were able to revive an 87-year-old woman who was a victim of the suspect. Unfortunately, she passed away shortly after being taken to the hospital. On July 8, a 76-year-old woman was allegedly killed by the doctor. Subsequent incidents involving the deaths of a 72-year-old woman and a 94-year-old woman occurred on July 15 and 24, respectively.
Authorities have not disclosed the specific details that led to the doctor's arrest or provided any information regarding a possible motive for the crimes. The suspect is currently being held on suspicion of manslaughter, as well as one count of arson and three counts of attempted arson.
