Key Question in Trial: What Kind of Knife Did Matija Vrdoljak Have?

A forensic expert testified at the trial of Matija Vrdoljak, who is accused of attempted murder for allegedly stabbing a 21-year-old man outside a Zagreb hotel on December 9, 2023. Vrdoljak, the grandson of a well-known director, is alleged to have attacked Luka D. from behind during a confrontation between two groups of youths. The knife used in the alleged assault has not been recovered, making the nature of the weapon a key point in the proceedings.

The expert stated that the wounds inflicted on Luka D. indicated the use of a small knife or similar implement. The victim sustained one stab wound approximately three centimeters long and two others around one centimeter each, with a depth of about two centimeters, reaching only the subcutaneous fatty tissue. The defense sought to clarify whether a smaller knife could have resulted in more severe injuries, and the expert confirmed that a knife with a blade up to eight centimeters could potentially cause deeper wounds.

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The injuries sustained by Luka D. indicate that it must have been a knife or similar small-sized tool.

Vrdoljak's defense also inquired about the possibility of a fatal outcome if a smaller knife was involved. The expert suggested that a blade length of three to five centimeters might have been used, which would likely result in less severe injuries. The victim, Luka D., did not immediately realize he had been stabbed and only sought medical attention later at KBC Rebro, where his minor injuries were treated.

Authorities released a video of the suspect a month after the incident, appealing for public assistance. A citizen came forward, leading to Vrdoljak's arrest. His grandfather's home was also searched, as Vrdoljak was living with him at the time. He was initially held in pretrial detention but was later released under precautionary measures.

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It is possible that it was a knife with a blade length of three to five centimeters, and in those circumstances, the probability of more serious injuries would be lower.