In a case that has sent shockwaves through Switzerland, Kristina Joksimovic, a 38-year-old former model and Miss Switzerland finalist, was found dead in her home in Binningen, near Basel, in February 2024. The tragic incident has unveiled a disturbing series of events that contradict the initial claims made by her husband, identified only as Thomas by local media.
According to a recent court ruling, Kristina Joksimovic was strangled to death, with the medical forensic report providing grim details that refute Thomas's assertion of self-defense. The post-mortem examination revealed that the victim's body had been dismembered using various tools, including a jigsaw, knife, and garden shears, in the laundry room of the couple's residence.
In a particularly gruesome twist, investigators found that Joksimovic's remains were subsequently processed with a handheld blender and dissolved in a chemical solution. This shocking revelation has led authorities to describe Thomas as exhibiting a "conspicuously high level of criminal energy" and possessing "sadistic-sociopathic traits."
The Federal Court, Switzerland's supreme judicial authority, reported that Thomas admitted to the killing in March 2024. However, his initial claim of discovering her dead and dismembering her in a "panic" was quickly discredited. The court ruling also noted "concrete indications of mental illness" underlying the case, highlighting the complex nature of the investigation.
"The suspect has shown a lack of empathy and cold-bloodedness after killing his wife, indicating potential sadistic-sociopathic traits."
The couple, who married in 2017, reportedly had a history of marital difficulties. Police had previously been called to their residence over reports of physical violence. Despite these issues, Joksimovic shared photos on social media of a "couple's getaway" at a luxurious hotel above Lake Lucerne just four weeks before her death, presenting a facade of normalcy to the outside world.
Kristina Joksimovic's tragic demise has deeply affected those who knew her from her modeling career and participation in beauty pageants. After being crowned Miss Northwest Switzerland and reaching the finals of the Miss Switzerland competition in 2007, she transitioned into coaching other models and beauty pageant contestants.
Fellow contestants and friends have expressed their shock and sorrow. Nadine Vinzens, Miss Switzerland 2002, described Joksimovic as "a good and nice person," while Lorena Santen, Miss Switzerland 2023, who was trained by Joksimovic, stated, "We will miss you so much."
This devastating event has reignited discussions about domestic violence and mental health in Switzerland, a country known for its low crime rates. The Swiss criminal justice system, based on civil law principles, will now face the challenge of addressing this complex case, considering both the brutal nature of the crime and the potential mental health factors involved.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on seeking justice for Kristina Joksimovic and supporting her two young daughters, who have been left without their mother in the wake of this tragedy.