By Swiss authorities are investigating the gruesome murder of Kristina Joksimovic, 38, a former Miss Switzerland finalist and model, who was allegedly killed and dismembered by her husband in February in Binningen, near Basel.
The suspect, identified only as Thomas in local media due to Swiss privacy laws, has admitted to strangling his wife to death, according to police reports. An autopsy revealed that following the strangulation, the victim’s body was dismembered in the couple’s laundry room using a jigsaw, knife, and garden shears.
In a shocking development, investigators found that body parts were then “pureed” in a hand blender and dissolved in a chemical solution, as reported by Swiss news outlet Blick. The remains were discovered and reported to authorities, leading to Thomas’s arrest the following day.
Thomas initially claimed self-defense, telling investigators he killed his wife “in a panic” as she approached him with a knife. However, a medical forensic report contradicts this account, according to FM1 Today, another Swiss news source.
Law enforcement officials have noted disturbing aspects of the suspect’s behavior and mental state. “The suspect showed a lack of empathy and cold-bloodedness after killing his wife,” a police spokesperson said, adding that Thomas made significant efforts to cover up the crime.
The ongoing investigation has uncovered “concrete indications of mental illness” behind the killing. Authorities described Thomas, a business owner, as displaying a “conspicuously high level of criminal energy” during assessments, along with “sadistic-sociopathic traits.”
Joksimovic, who had Serbian roots, was a model turned catwalk coach. She had previously won the Miss Northwest Switzerland competition and was a finalist in the 2008 national Miss Switzerland pageant.
Friends of the victim have come forward with information about the couple’s relationship. One close acquaintance stated that their relationship had been “in crisis for months.” Police records show previous callouts to the couple’s home for reports of domestic violence.
The tragedy has shocked Switzerland’s modeling and entertainment community. Lorena Santen, the reigning Miss Switzerland, expressed her grief: “We will miss you so much.” Christa Rigozzi, another former Miss Switzerland, said, “It’s terrible. I’m really shocked. I’m thinking of her two daughters.”
Model Nadine Vinzens shared on social media: “I’m so heartbroken. You were such a good and nice person. I will not ever forget the time in LA with you. RIP my beauty.”
The case has reignited discussions about domestic violence in Switzerland. Women’s rights advocates are calling for stronger protective measures and support systems for individuals in abusive relationships.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on building a comprehensive case against Thomas. The suspect remains in custody as prosecutors prepare formal charges.
The tragic death of Kristina Joksimovic serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers of domestic violence and the importance of recognizing and addressing warning signs in relationships.
