Aarau, Switzerland: A shooting at a rave party in Aarau, northern Switzerland, early Sunday left one person dead and five others injured, with some of the wounded reportedly in serious condition, according to local authorities.
The shooting took place at a horse-racing track in Aarau’s Schachen district, where the annual Aarauer Rave was being held. Around 3,500 people were attending the techno event, which began on Saturday afternoon and continued into the early hours of Sunday.
Police said several shots were fired into a large group of people at around 2:30 a.m. local time. Some attendees initially believed the sounds were fireworks before realizing that gunfire was taking place.
A large scale emergency response was launched, involving police, firefighters and ambulances. Authorities cordoned off the area and moved attendees to a nearby gymnasium for safety.
Suspect Remains at Large
- The suspected shooter or shooters have not yet been identified, and a major manhunt is underway. Police have not established a motive, while investigators continue to determine exactly what led to the shooting.
- Authorities are asking witnesses and people who attended the rave to provide photographs or videos that could help identify those responsible. German police are also assisting with the investigation because of the region’s proximity to the German border.
Investigation Underway
- Investigators are examining how the gunman was able to open fire in a crowded event and are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
- The incident has attracted significant attention because serious shootings are relatively uncommon in Switzerland.
