Trial Begins in Braunschweig After Acid Attack Leaves Man Blind

The regional court in Braunschweig has commenced proceedings against a 27-year-old woman from Lower Saxony, who stands accused of attempting to murder her husband with concentrated formic acid. The incident, which took place during a period of marital separation, resulted in the victim suffering severe chemical burns and permanent loss of vision.

According to information presented by the prosecution, the accused allegedly planned the assault shortly after her husband expressed his intention to file for divorce. Authorities claim that the motive behind the attack was to obtain a payout of 400,000 euros from a life insurance policy held in the victim's name.

Investigators report that, in November 2025, the woman enticed her husband into the basement of their shared home in Schladen, a residence they occupied with their two children. Once inside, she purportedly poured highly concentrated formic acid over his head and face from behind. The man managed to escape the basement and reach the exterior of the property, where he was aided by a neighbor who provided immediate assistance and contacted emergency services.

As a result of the substance exposure, the victim sustained extensive burns to his eyes, throat, and arms. Medical examination revealed that the corneas of both eyes had been destroyed, rendering him completely blind. Due to the severity of his injuries and the extreme pain experienced, doctors placed the man in a medically induced coma for several days to facilitate his recovery and manage his suffering.

The prosecution argues that the accused was aware of the potentially fatal consequences of her actions, citing evidence that she researched the effects of formic acid prior to the incident. The charges brought against her include attempted murder and grievous bodily harm, among others. The trial is expected to span seven days, with the final verdict anticipated in early May.

The case has attracted significant public attention due to the gravity of the allegations and the rare use of a corrosive chemical as a weapon in a domestic setting. Investigators have emphasized the deliberate and calculated nature of the attack, as well as the vulnerability of the victim, who was reportedly unprepared and unable to defend himself during the assault.

As the trial progresses, the court will hear testimony from forensic experts, law enforcement officers, and witnesses, including the neighbor who provided crucial first aid. The proceedings will focus on establishing the sequence of events, verifying the accused's intent, and determining the extent of premeditation involved in the crime.

This case underscores the devastating impact that domestic violence can have on families, highlighting the importance of early intervention and support mechanisms for those at risk. Legal experts anticipate that the outcome of the trial may set a precedent for how similar offenses are prosecuted in the future, particularly where chemical agents are employed as weapons.