Brattås double murder trial begins after DNA genealogy breakthrough

The trial has commenced in the Ångermanlands District Court regarding the double murder of Tor Öberg and Gerd Viklund, which occurred in Brattås near Härnösand 21 years ago in June 2005.

A 45-year-old man has been charged following a breakthrough made possible by new legislation allowing the use of DNA-based genealogical research. While police linked the suspect to the crime scene via DNA, the man denies the murders. In interrogations, he admitted to being at the location by chance after hearing screams and stated he moved the victim, Gerd Viklund, into a barn, but claimed he saw two other men fleeing the scene.

The defense attorney, Johan Lavås, argues that the evidence is weak, noting the absence of a murder weapon and a clear motive. Conversely, senior prosecutor Hanna Flordal maintains that the defendant's explanation is not credible. The trial is expected to last four days.