Axel's Murder: Early Warning Signs

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Post on Jan 24, 2025

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Axel's Murder: Early Warning Signs – Could It Have Been Prevented?

This is tough to write, you know? Talking about Axel's murder… man, it still stings. It's been a couple of years, but the memories… they’re like a bad song stuck on repeat. I knew Axel, we were friends, and looking back, there were definitely some early warning signs I missed. And that's what eats at me the most. Could things have been different? Could we have stopped it?

The Subtle Shifts: Changes in Behavior I Ignored

Axel was always a bit of a loner, sure, but he was my loner. He was quiet, but kind. We'd grab beers, shoot the breeze about fantasy football – you know, the usual stuff. But things started shifting… subtly at first. He started withdrawing. Less gaming nights, fewer texts, cancelled plans more often.

I chalked it up to stress. Everyone gets stressed out, right? He was working a lot, pushing hard at his new job. Burnout, I thought. I shoulda been more observant. Shoulda checked in more often.

Then there were the fights. Not physical fights, but heated arguments on social media. He’d get into these online brawls, defending… well, it was weird. He’d jump into arguments about stuff he never usually cared about. Online radicalization… that phrase is thrown around a lot now, and, looking back, that's what it felt like.

There were other things, too. Sleepless nights – he mentioned them once or twice. Sudden mood swings – from happy to enraged in a heartbeat. And he started talking about… well, things I'm still not entirely comfortable discussing. Paranoia, I think is the only word to describe it.

Missed Opportunities: Where I Failed As A Friend

I was a terrible friend. Plain and simple. I saw the warning signs, but I ignored them. I didn't push him to talk; I didn't offer help; I didn't seek professional advice. I just kinda... hoped things would get better.

Biggest mistake: I rationalized his behavior. I made excuses for him. I didn't want to believe my friend was capable of… of that. That's a deadly mistake, people. Don't be like me.

Recognizing the Red Flags: Learning From Tragedy

What are the warning signs of violent behavior? I wish I knew then what I know now. Here are some things to watch out for:

• Isolation: Withdrawal from friends and family is a huge red flag.
• Extreme Mood Swings: Unpredictable shifts in behavior, going from calm to aggressive quickly.
• Increased Anger and Irritability: A shorter fuse, frequent outbursts, easily provoked.
• Paranoia and Delusions: Believing others are out to get them, hallucinations.
• Obsession with Violence: A preoccupation with weapons, violent media, or violent fantasies.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia or excessive sleeping can indicate underlying mental health issues.
• Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug use can exacerbate existing issues.
• Threats of Self-Harm or Violence: These should NEVER be ignored.

What You Can Do: Taking Action

If you see these signs in a friend, do something. It's not snitching; it's saving a life. Here's what I wish I'd done:

• Reach out: Talk to your friend. Express your concern directly and let them know you’re there for them.
• Encourage Professional Help: Suggest therapy or counseling; offer to help find resources.
• Contact Authorities: If you believe your friend is a danger to themselves or others, contact the appropriate authorities.
• Support Systems: Don’t be afraid to reach out to your own support network; you need help, too.

Axel's murder wasn't inevitable. It was preventable. My inaction contributed to the tragedy. I hope my mistakes serve as a stark reminder. Learn from this. Reach out. Save a life.