Berlin Doctor Charged With 15 Patient Murders

A Berlin palliative care doctor, Johannes M., has been charged with murdering 15 patients between September 2021 and July 2024 by administering fatal doses of anesthetics and muscle relaxants without their consent, allegedly out of a 'lust for murder.' The victims, aged 25 to 94, were not imminently dying at the time of their deaths. Prosecutors suspect the total number of victims may be higher, as 75 additional deaths remain under investigation with further exhumations planned. In several instances, the doctor allegedly set fires in victims’ homes to cover up the crimes, which ultimately attracted police attention. Johannes M. has been in custody since August 2024, has not responded to the charges, and faces a possible life sentence without parole if convicted. Authorities are seeking a lifelong professional ban and preventative detention.