Vienna Police Search for Unknown Man After Knife Threat Near Subway Station

What is known so far

The exact sequence of events and possible background details are the subject of ongoing investigations. According to their own statements, the authorities are reviewing, among other things, the analysis of video recordings from the area of the subway station as well as from the adjacent Hardeggasse subway station.

In view of the public impact of the incident, the Vienna State Criminal Office has published a factual report and is calling on potential witnesses to come forward. Tips that lead to the identification of the pictured man would be processed in a dedicated case file.

Tips from the public requested

Anyone who observed something can contact the North Branch – Duty Service of the Vienna State Criminal Office. The police ask that relevant information – such as on the whereabouts, clothing, or observed behavior of the unknown man – be reported promptly so that the search can be advanced quickly.

For the investigators, the identification of the wanted man is the priority. Only once his identity is established should further steps, such as an interrogation or a possible arrest, follow according to the authority. There are no confirmed findings so far regarding the number of persons involved or any possible motive.

The incident is part of the ongoing monitoring of the security situation in Vienna's local transport. In such cases, the Vienna Police regularly refer to the informant app section and the possibility of also contacting the nearest police station. The search is public because the man's identity has not yet been clarified.

Police appeal

The Vienna State Police Directorate explicitly asks that the pictured man not be approached independently, but that only the police be notified if he is recognized. Tips will be received by the Vienna State Criminal Office at the known contact options of the North Branch – Duty Service.

After the completion of the investigations, the Vienna State Police Directorate wants to summarize the proceedings in a final report and inform about the result. Until then, the authority asks the public for attention and assistance.