A deadly shooting occurred at a rave in the northern Swiss canton of Aargau, resulting in one fatality and five injuries early Sunday, as per local police and media reports. Authorities are currently searching for the perpetrator, with motives and details surrounding the incident remaining unclear.
According to cantonal police, a 22-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene, while four men and one woman, aged between 24 and 27, were hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to severe. All victims are Swiss residents, and their identities have not been disclosed in compliance with privacy regulations.
The shooting took place during the Aarau Rave VOL. 7 event at the Schachen horse racing track in Aarau, the canton’s capital, located 46 kilometers west of Zurich. Police were alerted to the incident around 2:30 a.m., prompting a significant law enforcement response with police, firefighters, and ambulances on-site. Authorities urged locals to avoid the area as the manhunt for the suspect unfolded.
In a concerning turn of events, guests initially mistook the gunshots for fireworks until a call to take cover was made. Following the conclusion of the rave, the shooting occurred, leading to the evacuation of remaining attendees to a nearby gym under police supervision.
Law enforcement authorities are appealing to potential witnesses possessing videos or photos of the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. The Aargau Racing Club, operators of the venue, expressed shock and sympathy for those affected, thanking emergency responders for their swift and dedicated response.
Swiss DJ Tekibo, a performer at the rave, expressed sorrow on social media, emphasizing the tragic nature of the incident in a supposed safe environment meant for freedom and enjoyment. Aarau, a city of 22,300 inhabitants, lies approximately 30 kilometers south of the German border.