MAASTRICHT - Justice in Maastricht has launched an investigation into the death of an 87-year-old woman from Schinveld. The widow was brutally attacked in her own home together with her autistic son by her cousin and his two companions early this year, after which she died shortly thereafter. Three suspects are detained in the case.

The very elderly Maria Mols was severely beaten in her bedroom causing her to break her hip and wrist. The loot from the armed robbery consisted of a batch of jewels and jewelry. Because Mols refused to hand over her rings, one of the robbers threatened to cut off her finger. The terrified grandmother prayed several quick prayers beside her bed during the robbery, the investigation file shows.

After this robbery, the former shopkeeper from Schinveld died. Currently, Schinveld-based John B. (42), Roger H. (35) and 35-year-old Michel B. from Sittard are behind bars. Françoise Landerloo, lawyer of the latter suspect, views the ongoing investigation by the public prosecutor with confidence. "It seems strong to me if, seven months after that robbery, they can still link the death of the lady."