A passerby discovered the body of a teenage boy on Wednesday around 5:00 PM near the shore of Waldsee lake in the Hackenbroich district.
Investigation Underway Following Teen’s Death
The deceased has been identified as a 14-year-old resident of Dormagen. Police report that the boy’s body bore injuries, leading investigators to believe this is a homicide. The “Waldsee” homicide commission, led by the Düsseldorf Police Headquarters, immediately took over the investigation at the scene.
Specialists secured evidence at the lake shore throughout the night. On Thursday morning, police, divers, search dogs, and forensic investigators returned to the area. After the dogs searched the area around where the body was found, divers from Wuppertal began searching the lake around midday, reportedly looking for the weapon used and other evidence, according to the public prosecutor’s office.
Forensic doctors are scheduled to conduct an autopsy on Thursday to determine the cause and time of death, though results were not available as of the afternoon. Due to investigative reasons, no information has been released regarding the nature of the injuries.
According to a police spokesperson, the deceased has been identified, but it is currently unknown if he had been reported missing. No public search had been initiated. The boy was originally from Eritrea and had been living with his family in a municipal refugee shelter in Dormagen-Delhoven since 2018. His parents have been informed of his death.
The 14-year-old had no prior record, stated Public Prosecutor Janne Jakobek to the dpa news agency. According to the city of Dormagen, he was “fully integrated into the city community” and actively participated in several leisure groups. He attended the Realschule in Hackenbroich, and the city’s Integration and Social Affairs Office maintained regular contact with his family.
“The death of this young person deeply affects us all,” said Dormagen Mayor Erik Lierenfeld. “On behalf of the city of Dormagen, I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and all those who knew him. Our thoughts are with the bereaved.” He expressed confidence in the police to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of this tragic death.
The boy’s classmates and teachers are receiving psychological support, according to city officials. The city also intends to provide support to the family during this difficult time.
Police have not yet released information regarding a possible motive. It remains unclear what the 14-year-old was doing at the lake and whether any valuables are missing.
Police are now asking the public for assistance. Anyone who made suspicious observations or has information about the case should contact investigators at 02131 3000 or via email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is known about the victim?
The victim was a 14-year-old resident of Dormagen, originally from Eritrea, who had been living in a municipal refugee shelter in Dormagen-Delhoven since 2018. He was a student at the Realschule in Hackenbroich and was described as being well-integrated into the community.
What is the police doing to investigate?
The police have launched a homicide investigation, secured the scene, and are searching the lake for evidence, including the potential weapon used. Forensic doctors are scheduled to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and time of death.
Is the public being asked to help?
Yes, police are asking anyone with information or who made suspicious observations to come forward and contact them at 02131 3000 or via email at [email protected].
What role might community support play in the wake of this tragedy?
