A deadly shooting occurred at a rave event in the northern Swiss canton of Aargau early Sunday, resulting in one fatality and five individuals sustaining injuries, as per local authorities and media reports. The police are actively searching for the perpetrator, with motives and specific details surrounding the incident still unclear.
Reports from the cantonal police indicated that a 22-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene, while four men and one woman between the ages of 24 and 27 were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to severe. All the victims are Swiss residents, and their identities have been withheld in adherence to privacy regulations.
The incident took place during the Aarau Rave VOL. 7 at the Schachen horse racing track in Aarau, the canton’s capital, approximately 46 kilometers west of Zurich. Authorities were notified about the shooting at around 2:30 a.m., prompting a significant police presence at the site, including firefighters and ambulances. The area was cordoned off for investigation.
A manhunt is currently underway for the suspect, with authorities urging locals to steer clear of the vicinity. Collaborating efforts with police in Freiburg, Germany, have also been reported in the search operations.
Witnesses at the rave initially mistook the gunshots for fireworks until a warning prompted them to take cover. Following the incident, remaining attendees were escorted to a nearby gym by law enforcement. Authorities have called on individuals with any footage or images of the shooting to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Expressing shock over the tragic event, the Aargau Racing Club, which manages the venue, extended sympathies to those affected. The club commended the emergency responders and other personnel for their prompt and professional actions during the crisis.
Swiss DJ Tekibo, who performed at the rave, shared his sorrow on social media, emphasizing the importance of safety and freedom at such events. Aarau, a city with a population of 22,300, is situated approximately 30 kilometers south of the German border.