Woman Gets Suspended Sentence for Butyric Acid Attack on Hospital Staff
A 32-year-old woman has received a suspended prison sentence for attacking hospital staff with butyric acid. The incident took place at Hanusch Hospital in Penzing in December 2025, leaving five employees injured. During the trial, she admitted guilt and expressed regret for her actions. The defendant ordered a canister of butyric acid online before carrying out the attack. She targeted a doctor, who suffered eye injuries and later testified that he feared for his life. Four other staff members sustained first-degree injuries from the corrosive substance.
She claimed her actions stemmed from frustration over feeling unsupported by medical staff after being diagnosed with a chronic illness. Following the attack, she was initially placed in a psychiatric facility but was later declared mentally stable.
The court sentenced her to two years in prison, suspended for a three-year probation period. She was also ordered to pay €3,168 in compensation to two affected employees and €13,566 to the Austrian Health Insurance Fund. Records showed she had already paid €2,000 to the doctor prior to the trial. The suspended sentence means the defendant will avoid imprisonment if she complies with probation terms. The compensation payments will cover medical costs and damages resulting from the attack. The case has now concluded with the court's ruling.
