Berlin Doctor Johannes M. Charged with Murdering 15 Patients

A 40-year-old Berlin physician, identified in German media as Johannes M., has been charged with the murder of 15 patients under his care, in what prosecutors describe as a case driven by a “lust for murder.” The shocking allegations have triggered a widespread investigation that may reveal an even higher number of victims.

Initially arrested in August 2024 in connection with four suspicious deaths, Johannes M. is now formally accused of administering lethal drug combinations to patients in palliative care who were not in the final stages of life. Authorities believe the alleged crimes span from 2021 to 2024 and may involve more victims yet to be discovered.

Prosecutors say the doctor administered an anesthetic followed by a muscle relaxant to unsuspecting patients, causing their deaths without medical justification or consent. One early case involved a 25-year-old woman in 2021, who allegedly died from a fatal dose of drugs administered by the suspect.

The criminal proceedings have been scheduled before the Berlin Regional Court, while investigative teams continue to examine medical records and conduct further exhumations. The prosecutor’s office also seeks a lifetime professional ban against Johannes M., who had previously practiced in multiple German states.

Authorities initially uncovered the case after a series of apartment fires linked to the victims prompted a deeper investigation. The doctor allegedly set fire to some of the properties in an attempt to destroy evidence. Although early investigations classified the deaths as accidental or linked to arson, suspicions grew following tips from the nursing service he worked with.

Forensic examinations of exhumed bodies confirmed unnatural causes of death, prompting the establishment of a dedicated investigative unit within the Berlin State Criminal Police Office. Despite the grave accusations, the doctor has not admitted to any wrongdoing.

Investigators emphasize that none of the alleged victims were in the “acute phase of dying” at the time of death, challenging any suggestion that the doctor’s actions were in line with palliative care objectives. As the legal proceedings begin, the number of confirmed victims may still rise, marking this as one of the most disturbing medical criminal cases in recent German history.