Heilsbronn attempted murder case ordered for retrial by BGH

The German Federal Court of Justice (BGH) has overturned a previous verdict regarding an attempted contract killing in Heilsbronn, ordering a retrial at the Ansbach District Court.

In February 2025, a manager of a prominent sports fashion brand was attacked with a knife in front of his home. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries to his neck and torso but survived after calling emergency services. A 26-year-old suspect was previously sentenced to 13 years and 6 months in prison.

While the BGH found no error in the conviction itself, it identified a potential legal error regarding the sentencing. The motive is believed to be linked to the victim's professional work, with investigators suggesting a 50,000 euro payment was promised to the perpetrator and an accomplice. The suspect was apprehended in Great Britain after fleeing through France.