No reason to panic yet Steep rise in firearms offences Expert put in perspective

Switzerland has seen a noticeable rise in incidents involving firearms in 2025, according to police statistics released recently. The data shows that there were 32 attempted murders using firearms last year, double the number recorded in the previous year. Similarly, cases of severe bodily harm caused by firearms increased to 13 in 2025, compared to significantly fewer instances in prior years. These figures have sparked concern following recent events, including the shooting in Aarau. However, legal experts caution against drawing premature conclusions about a broader trend. The increase in firearm-related crimes comes amid heightened public awareness due to high-profile incidents such as the attack in Aarau. Police statistics indicate that while the numbers have risen sharply, they remain relatively low in historical context. Nora Markwalder, a professor of criminal law, criminal procedure, and criminology at the University of St. Gallen, emphasized that a true upward trend can only be determined through long-term observation. She noted that the number of completed murders with firearms did not increase in 2025 compared to the previous year. Markwalder pointed out that the rise in reported incidents could be attributed to several factors, including statistical anomalies or isolated cases involving multiple victims. She stressed that these developments do not necessarily signal an alarming trend. Historical data reveals that Switzerland experienced far more firearm-related deaths during the 1990s than today. Since that time, there has been a consistent decline in such incidents, with the past decade showing relative stability. She cited the year 2009 as a particularly violent period, with 55 firearm-related killings recorded. Despite this, no definitive reasons for the current lower rates have been identified. One possible explanation, she suggested, is the reduced presence of firearms in private households. This could be linked to the reduction in the size of the Swiss military or a general shift in public attitudes toward keeping weapons at home. Markwalder also highlighted a notable change in the nature of violent crime over the past decade. She observed that since 2016, stabbings have resulted in more fatalities than shootings. This suggests a potential shift in the methods used in violent crimes within the country. Additionally, she mentioned that incidents involving multiple victims in public spaces are rare, with most cases typically involving a single victim and a personal relationship between perpetrator and victim. Following the Aarau incident, authorities have announced a press conference scheduled for Wednesday afternoon to provide further updates on the investigation. Details surrounding the attack remain under scrutiny, with many questions still unanswered. The police have confirmed that they have secured firearms and drugs during their investigations in the region of Trimmis, Grisons, indicating ongoing efforts to address related criminal activities. Public reaction to the rising numbers has been mixed, with some expressing concern over the potential implications of these trends. Others, however, echo the sentiments of experts who argue that the situation should not be overstated. As the investigation into the Aarau case continues, officials will likely provide more clarity on whether the recent spikes represent part of a larger pattern or isolated occurrences. The upcoming press conference is expected to offer additional insights into the circumstances surrounding the attack and the broader context of firearm-related crimes in Switzerland.