Two years after a man disappeared in Heispelt, a village near the reservoir, his wife now stands trial for his alleged murder. 

In spring 2022, a 57-year-old man, known as 'Poli', was found dead in the basement of his home. On Monday afternoon, his 38-year-old wife appeared in court in Diekirch, facing charges of murder, manslaughter, and fraud.

The case began on Monday, 7 March 2022, when police were alerted in the evening that the resident of Heispelt had not been seen for two weeks.

His wife had been making excuses that he was away, despite his car being parked behind the barn. Neighbours eventually raised the alarm.

Investigating officers discovered his body in the basement, and initial findings suggested the death was not from natural causes. An autopsy was ordered, and the man's wife was taken into custody.

The prosecution accuses her of striking her husband with a hammer. She is also charged with attempted fraud, as she allegedly tried to claim ownership of the house following his death.

Whether financial gain was a motive for her actions is a key question the court will examine.

As in all cases, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The trial began on Monday in Diekirch and is expected to last three to four days.