Arrest in Germany over the death of an American girl.

In an investigation linked to the suicide of a 14‑year‑old girl living in Indiana, USA, an 18‑year‑old man was arrested in Hamburg, Germany. According to CBS News and AFP's October 24, 2026 report, German prosecutors are investigating the suspect on charges of indirect participation in murder and serious bodily harm. Information obtained from the work carried out by the FBI and the Fort Wayne Police Department was shared with German authorities.

Alleged to Have Applied Pressure via Discord

According to the Hamburg Prosecutor's Office, the suspect was 17 at the time of the incidents and communicated with a young girl living in Indiana via Discord during September‑October 2025. Prosecutors claim that the girl, whom they say was in a psychologically vulnerable state, was pressured to harm herself. According to the allegations, the suspect asked the girl to injure herself and to send him images of those acts. The girl died a few days later.

Connection to 764 and NMK Under Investigation

German authorities say the suspect is linked to the online group “Nefarious Maniac Cult” (NMK), which is associated with the 764 network that operates on a global scale. Officials say such groups are accused of directing children and youth to harm themselves, obtaining violent imagery, and using that material for exploitation.

FBI Data Revealed the Scale of the Threat

According to data released by FBI Director Kash Patel, investigations linked to nihilist violence‑oriented extremism rose by 300 percent between September 2024 and September 2025. Patel said a significant portion of these cases were connected to the 764 network. Officials said the network does not coalesce around a particular political ideology, but instead stands out for activities that promote self‑harm and violent acts.

Claims About the Suspect's Motive

The Hamburg prosecutor's office alleged that the suspect was attempting to obtain a video related to the young girl's death. Investigators are assessing that he may have sought the footage to gain standing within the group or to be accepted by it.

FBI and Local Police Conducted the Investigation Together

FBI Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley of Indianapolis said the agency had worked with the Fort Wayne Police Department to provide information to German authorities. Fort Wayne police also reported that, following an investigation by the homicide unit, a suspect deemed linked to the young girl's death had been identified. The inquiry continues through international cooperation.