Dispute over wages erupts in gunfire; accused defendant claims act of self-protection
A Turkish businessman, aged 49, is currently facing trial at the Berlin Regional Court, charged with violating the Weapons Act and causing grievous bodily harm. The alleged incident occurred on October 18, 2023, in Berlin-Weißensee. The businessman, who has been in business for many years, is accused of shooting a 23-year-old during a dispute over a few hundred euros related to an unpaid debt to a 53-year-old driver. The victim was left critically injured and his right arm largely paralyzed as a result. Prior to the incident, the businessman is said to have taken a pistol and a magazine with 15 rounds without a permit, as he was concerned about threats he had received. He initially claimed to have held the pistol towards the ceiling in the office. However, during the trial, he asserted that his intention was to 'ward off an attack against me'. The dispute escalated when the 23-year-old victim and the 53-year-old driver went to the office to confront the businessman. According to the defendant, more shots were fired during the struggle. The defendant's son was present during the alleged incident and reportedly punched the defendant in the face. After the incident, the defendant called the police and was arrested. He remained in custody until early January 2024. The trial continues on September 22. The businessman's intention, according to his statements, was to shoot the 23-year-old victim in the leg. However, the exact circumstances of the shooting are still under investigation. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of escalating disputes and the importance of adhering to the law. The trial will proceed to determine the businessman's guilt or innocence in the matter.
