Sarah Papenheim, a 21-year-old college student from Minnesota, was murdered in her apartment in Rotterdam, Netherlands after being reportedly stabbed by a 23-year-old Dutch man who lived in her same building. According to ABC Eyewitness News, Papenheim was studying psychology at Erasmus University.
The identity of the killer has not been released, but Papenheim’s mother, Donee Odegard, says the suspect was Sarah’s roommate, who her daughter had stated had a bad temper. Authorities also believe the two were acquaintances.
All of the information we know can be seen below.
What Happened?
21-year-old student Sarah Papenheim was murdered inside of her apartment building in the Netherlands by a 23-year-old man who may have been her roommate. Papenheim was attacked and stabbed, though authorities currently have not come up with a motive.
Papenheim was a student at Erasmus University.
“The university is shocked by this terrible incident and is taking care of upset students and employees and will act towards relatives according to our protocols. We encourage our students and staff not to let each other alone in this difficult time and to get in touch with student-advisors and psychologists if they want to,” a statement from the university read.
Papenheim’s family has set up a GoFundMe account with a goal of $40,000 to help with “travel costs for the family and to bring Sarah home, not to mention any funeral and burial costs involved.”
The fundraiser reads:
Sarah was a beautiful, vibrant young woman and a talented musician with a smile that could light up a room. She played with some of the best musicians on the scene in the Twin Cities and had many close relationships with them. Her presence is irreplaceable.
Our deepest condolences go out to Papenheim’s friends and family during this incredibly difficult time.
Where Is Erasmus University?
Google Maps
Erasumus University is located in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The university has four main focuses: health, wealth, governance, and culture. The current enrollment at Erasmus University is just under 30,000 with nearly 3,000 staff members.