14-year-old Hungarian broke into dozens of cars in Vienna
A 14-year-old Hungarian national has been identified as the main suspect in a spate of car break-ins across Vienna, with authorities estimating that he and his accomplices may have targeted between 40 and 50 vehicles in recent weeks.
Dramatic arrest following eyewitness reports
The investigation began early Tuesday morning when concerned witnesses in Vienna’s Meidling district spotted a young driver behaving erratically behind the wheel of a visibly damaged car, Telex reported. Alarmed by the youth’s uncertain driving and the state of the vehicle, they alerted local police. Officers arriving at the scene found the car parked on the sidewalk and quickly apprehended the driver as he exited the vehicle.
Upon questioning, the 14-year-old suspect admitted to breaking the car’s side window and using a key found in the glove compartment to start the engine. He further confessed that this was not his first such incident, revealing that he had used the same method to break into multiple vehicles in Vienna and its surroundings.
Search uncovers stolen goods and weapons
A subsequent search of the teenager’s residence by Austrian authorities uncovered a significant haul: EUR 2,298.67 in cash, two knives, a canister of pepper spray, various tobacco products, and a damaged garage door opener. Police believe these items are linked to the series of break-ins and have seized them as evidence.
Accomplices still at large
The investigation has revealed that the Hungarian youth did not act alone. He is suspected of having committed the burglaries with two unidentified accomplices. Despite police efforts, the teenager has so far declined or been unable to provide information about his partners in crime. Authorities continue to search for these individuals and have appealed to the public for any information that could assist in their identification.
Legal proceedings and ongoing investigation
Following his arrest, the 14-year-old was released pending further investigation, in accordance with the instructions of the Vienna Public Prosecutor’s Office, Austrian news portal OE24.at reported. The case is now being handled by the Vienna State Criminal Police Office, South Division. Police are urging anyone with information about the break-ins or the unidentified accomplices to come forward.
Read also: