Sebastian T. after release: New trial planned in Hanna's murder case!

Sebastian T. after release: New trial planned in Hanna's murder case!

Since Sebastian T.'s release from the Traunstein Correctional Facility on June 20, 2025, the Hanna Wörndl murder case has been in the public eye again. The now 23-year-old had to spend a whole year in prison because he was convicted of the student's death in 2022. However, the Federal Court of Justice has overturned the ruling, meaning the case will be heard again in September 2025. Sebastian T. and his relatives are still convinced of his innocence. His defense attorney, Regina Rick, characterized the tragedy as a tragic accident, which stirs emotions in the region.

The circumstances of the case are complicated. On the evening of October 3, 2022, after a celebration, Hanna Wörndl drowned near Aschau. Sebastian T. was out jogging that evening and was seen by witnesses before the events took their dramatic turn. According to him, the necessary evidence to establish a link between him and the incident may be missing. A psychological report by psychologist Max Steller also questioned the credibility of the incriminating statements made by the main witness Adrian M. According to Steller, it cannot be established that M. actually experienced his confession; There is evidence of a motive for making false statements and a tendency to lie, which influenced the judicial deliberations. Mercury reports that the 1st Youth Chamber of the Traunstein Regional Court revoked the arrest warrant because “an urgent suspicion” was no longer recognizable.

Life after prison

After his release, Sebastian T. lives in seclusion in Aschau, the hometown of the late Hanna. He consciously made time for his family, plays table tennis, climbs mountains and enjoys the freedom that was denied him in prison. However, this new phase of life also brings challenges. Sebastian stated that he is afraid of the upcoming trial, but also sees opportunities for the truth to come to light and for both affected families to receive clarity. The trial is expected with the hope of a possible acquittal, which was also raised by his defense attorney Yves Georg. South German newspaper adds that during his 945 nights in prison, Sebastian had to spend many important personal holidays without his family.

The psychological aspects

In the legal assessment of the case, the psychology of testimony is increasingly being used to check the credibility of witnesses and their statements. According to the current professional standard, which is discussed in the psychologist Steller's report, the plausibility and general accuracy of incriminating witness statements is crucial. An unreliable person can still make a credible statement, which illustrates the complexity of such processes. Trust in the credibility of the statement is just as important as evaluating the content. Family court report informs that such reports can play a central role in the proceedings in order to question the perspective and behavior of witnesses.

The upcoming new trial could have a significant impact on the course of Sebastian T.'s life. While society hopes to clarify the circumstances, it remains to be seen how the judiciary will deal with the new evidence. One thing is clear: the question of guilt or innocence is not made any easier by the complex dynamics of the case.