GENEVA (AP) — A tragic shooting occurred at a rave in the northern Swiss canton of Aargau, resulting in one death and five injuries early Sunday. Local police are actively searching for multiple suspects believed to be involved in the incident.
The Aargau cantonal police reported that a 22-year-old woman died at the scene from her injuries. Four men and one woman, aged between 24 and 27, were transported to a hospital with varying degrees of injuries, from minor to severe. All victims are Swiss residents; however, the names of the injured have not been disclosed due to Swiss privacy laws.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed the deceased woman’s identity as Maria Spinelli, an Italian citizen, and expressed her condolences on social media. She also mentioned that among the injured, there are two other Italian nationals, extending her thoughts to all affected by this devastating incident. Meloni emphasized her trust in the Swiss authorities for a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
At a press briefing, Aargau police stated that an extensive manhunt is underway, involving all available police forces. They noted that the investigation is moving "nonstop at full speed." While police have yet to establish a motive, spokesperson Bernhard Graser responded to queries about the possibility of terrorism, indicating that the situation's context does not support that theory. He suggested that a fight could be a plausible explanation for the eruption of violence.
Incidents of public shootings are relatively uncommon in Switzerland, despite a high prevalence of gun ownership. Graser remarked that the nature of this particular incident is unusual in recent years, warranting a significant police presence in response. Authorities received emergency alerts regarding the shooting at approximately 2:30 a.m. local time during the “Aarau Rave VOL. 7,” situated at the horse racing track in Aarau's Schachen district, which is located 46 kilometers (29 miles) west of Zurich.
In response to the shooting, the fire department secured a large area around the site. A substantial police operation continued throughout Sunday, urging locals to avoid the area under investigation for potential leads related to the crime. As part of the search efforts, police in Freiburg, Germany, also joined in the hunt for the suspect, according to the German news agency dpa.
Graser reported that nearly the entire Aargau police force was deployed in the streets, although there was no information on the whereabouts of the suspect or suspects. He assured the public that there was no ongoing threat from the individuals involved in the shooting. Witnesses at the rave initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks until someone shouted for everyone to lie down.
The shooting occurred as the rave was concluding. Police subsequently took the remaining attendees to a nearby gym, where many were interviewed regarding the incident. Authorities have requested any witnesses with videos or photographs from the event to assist in the investigation.
The Aargau Racing Club, which operates the venue, expressed shock over the shooting, offering condolences to the victims and their families. They also thanked the emergency responders for their professionalism and dedication during the crisis. Swiss DJ Tekibo, who performed at the rave, described the incident as "absolutely heartbreaking" on social media, reaffirming that techno events are meant to be places of freedom and safety.
Aarau is a small city with a population of approximately 22,300 residents, located about 30 kilometers (18 miles) south of the German border. This tragic event continues to deeply resonate within the community, highlighting concerns over public safety at social gatherings.
