Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Marianne Bachmeier: Vigilante Mother
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Aug 6, 2025 Dive into the harrowing tale of a mother who took justice into her own hands after the murder of her daughter. In a dramatic courtroom scene, she shot her daughter's alleged killer, igniting intense discussions on morality and the law. The podcast explores the public's mixed reactions to her actions and the societal implications of vigilante justice. It also delves into her complex life and struggles, raising poignant questions about parental responsibility and the lengths one would go to for a loved one.
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Vigilante Mother Executes Murderer
- Marianne Bachmeier executed her daughter's murderer in open court in Germany in 1981.
- She calmly fired six to eight shots, killing him on the spot as an act of vigilante justice.
Public Divided Over Sentence
- Public opinion in Germany was split on Marianne's sentence for killing her daughter's murderer.
- About a quarter felt the sentence was just, another quarter too harsh, and another quarter too lenient.
Case Sparks Legal and Moral Debate
- Marianne's case sparked debate on German court leniency toward repeat offenders.
- It raised questions about moral rights to kill in cases of personal loss and justice.