German prosecutors on August 10 announced an investigation into dozens of suspicious cases that may be linked to a nurse already convicted of killing 10 patients.
The man, identified by German media as Ulrich S., worked at a hospital in Würselen near Aachen. In November 2025, he was sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of 10 murders and 27 attempted murders. During the previous trial, prosecutors stated that he administered large doses of sedatives or painkillers to mostly elderly patients to reduce his own workload during night shifts.
121 cases may be linked to his work
The investigation continued even after his conviction. Prosecutors in Aachen are now examining 121 cases that they believe may be connected to the nurse’s activities. New charges against him may be filed in 2027. As part of the investigation, which covers cases dating back to September 2022, nearly 40 bodies have been exhumed so far.
Additionally, prosecutors in Cologne are investigating another 18 cases, the oldest of which dates back to 2010. According to local media reports, before working at the Würselen hospital, the nurse allegedly worked at a clinic in Cologne. This has also prompted an investigation into a possible link between his professional activities and other suspicious deaths.
During sentencing, the court also determined that the crimes had “particular gravity of guilt.” This means that his early release after 15 years, which is usually possible in such cases, is not anticipated. During the trial, prosecutors described him as a person who worked “without motivation” and empathy for his patients.
Other medical professionals accused of killing patients
This case is reminiscent of the story of nurse Niels Högel, who was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2019 for killing 85 patients. He is considered one of the most prolific serial killers in modern Germany. Högel administered lethal injections to patients between 2000 and 2005 until he was caught.
In July, a palliative care doctor in Berlin was also sentenced to life imprisonment for killing 15 people with lethal doses of sedatives. In several cases, he allegedly set fire to their apartments in an attempt to cover up the crimes. He also remains under investigation for possible involvement in other cases.
Source: The Straits Times
