The events are truly unique: "Although the public prosecutor's office initially investigated the case on suspicion of foul play and the autopsy was unable to determine a clear cause of death other than drowning, the criminal investigation department favoured suicide from the outset and thus prevented a proper investigation," says Luisser.
"It is completely incomprehensible why no professional work was carried out at the site where the body was found. Important witnesses such as the workers on site were ignored and the deceased's numerous injuries were not taken as an opportunity for a meticulous search for evidence. This is basic forensic knowledge that was simply ignored here," criticised Luisser. He considered the attempt by a policewoman to prevent the post-mortem examination suggested by the doctor present to be particularly explosive. "The fact that a female officer with no medical training is trying to prevent a post-mortem raises serious questions. What interest could there be in preventing a detailed investigation into the cause of death?"
Luisser described the failure to seize Pilnacek's smartphone as the most serious omission. "The central piece of evidence, which could have provided information about his last contacts and movements, was simply handed over and later destroyed. This actively prevented the investigation." Instead, only "alibi investigations" into peripheral issues were carried out, while the most important leads came to nothing.
In conclusion, Luisser announced further investigative steps: "From the information available to me, it is clear that either the investigation was botched or it looked the other way. We will not let up in our endeavours to clear up these events. Citizens have a right to expect that the police do their job properly and that nobody can put themselves above the law!"
The Ombudsperson announced that he would keep the public informed about further investigations. This is also his legal mandate: "The official investigation procedure was initiated on 24 March 2025. My task is to continue this in order to finally be able to answer the open questions."
