Investigation of Euskirchen school attack continues

"We are most deeply shocked and concerned by the grievous incident at our school and hope that our pupil is better soon." That was the message on Monday, from Euskirchen Comprehensive school.

But four days on since a student was hospitalized by a classmate, police in nearby Bonn are still investigating exactly what happened to 12-year-old Eric last Thursday afternoon.

"The investigation has so far revealed that an underage fellow pupil allegedly inflicted these injuries," chief prosecutor Robin Fassbender told reporters. One witness said the incident took place on school grounds during the school day.

After complaining of a headache on Thursday, Eric was taken to Euskirchener Marien-Hospital where he underwent an initial consultation. The boy was later flown by air ambulance to the neurological specialist clinic in nearby Merheim where he remains in intensive care.

Alleged perpetrator known among parents

According to German tabloid "Bild," a mother whose son witnessed the attack said the 12-year-old boy took a blow to the neck. The mother also said she was aware of previous incidents involving the suspected perpetrator which had been brought to the school's attention. Concerned parents allegedly requested that the pupil be expelled, but the school instead allowed him to stay.

Critics are now turning to Euskirchen Comprehensive, demanding to know why action wasn't taken sooner. Child and youth therapist Susanne Gronki told DW that one of the main problems facing schools in preventing such incidents is a lack of training.

"In many schools there are social workers which has greatly improved the situation, but I think in Germany, not all teachers are trained well-enough to notice behavioral problems as it isn't included in their training.

"When children with problems go to school, then sometimes the classes are too big and teachers aren't able to provide these children the necessary time and attention," Gronki said.

Social scientist, theologian and trauma therapy expert Frank C. Waldschmidt said there are often warning signs which can help prevent schoolyard altercations from escalating.

"You can't completely prevent such an act. However, there are usually harbingers. There are situations that indicate an outburst," he told local paper "Kölner Stadtanzeiger."

Waldschmidt is often called upon for advice following crisis situations in schools. He was previously on hand following the Erfurt massacre in 2002, as well as the Winnenden school shooting, eight years later.

Envy not enough

According to local media, the attack against the 12-year-old was allegedly provoked by an altercation over the popular Japanese "Yu-Gi-Oh" card game and the boy's success at it. 

Werner Ebner, who runs several anti-bulling platforms, told DW violence or bullying, prompted by jealously, is often seen among children.

"This is unfortunately the case in various aspects of school life, whether academic, or sporting," he said, adding that the incident in Euskirchen was "not a one-off."

"What's rare is the intensity of the violence," Ebner said, adding that both parents as well as the school are responsible for ensuring that such behavior is prevented.

Gronki, said, however, that despite the enthusiasm of many children for the latest craze, this is rarely enough to provoke the extent of violence allegedly seen in Euskirchen.

"This attack cannot be the result of just collecting cards. There are many different reasons that could provoke this behavior, both at school and at home," Gronki told DW, adding that it was "dangerous" to generalize any motives.

Suspect too young for juvenile court

Following extensive questioning last week, one suspect has now been identified by authorities. But despite the ongoing investigation led by Bonn police, their hands may be tied as far as a punishment is concerned.

"According to the German criminal code, children under the age of 14 are exempt from facing criminal charges," specialist lawyer in juvenile crime Harriet Krüger told DW.

"The suspect is only 12, so they're too young to be held accountable by Germany's juvenile criminal justice system," she said.

For violent crimes, however, it is possible for German authorities to refer minors for psychiatric analysis. In some cases, this could result in the perpetrator being referred to mental health care professionals or social services, especially if medics deem it advisable or if there is a threat of a repeat offense.

"In some cases, the victim or their family also have the possibility of filing for financial compensation," Bonn-based lawyer Dr. Michael E. Kurth told DW.

In a separate incident on Monday, another 12-year-old pupil, who also attends Euskirchen Comprehensive was reportedly threatened with a knife by a boy who went to a different school.

One week earlier, the same 12-year-old was allegedly beaten and kicked close to Euskirchen train station. Authorities are investigating both incidents.