25/06/2026 13:18 - Internacionales
On June 18, 2026, a family tragedy shook the quiet town of Meerstad, located in the northeastern province of Groningen, Netherlands. A teenager of only 15 years old was detained as the prime suspect in the murder of her parents, Johan and Mathilda, both 53 years old, in what authorities are investigating as a double homicide.
The case has generated profound shock not only in the local community but also internationally, due to the particularly disturbing circumstances surrounding the crime.
The young woman identified as 'therian', an Internet subculture where people believe they are spiritually an animal in a human body, also known as otherkin. This concept is different from transgender people or furries (fans of anthropomorphic themes), as therians deeply identify with a specific animal, feeling they possess the soul or spirit of that creature.
This identity, which usually forms in online communities, has sparked debate about adolescent mental health and the influence of social networks on psychological development. The term comes from 'therianthropy,' a spiritual practice with ancient roots that has found new expression in modern digital communities.
Neighbors of the family expressed their absolute bewilderment at the event. They described the couple as "the kindest people in the world", making the crime even more difficult to comprehend for the Meerstad community. The town, known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic lakeside living, has been deeply affected by this tragedy.
The Netherlands Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar Ministerie) has placed the teenager under preventive detention for at least two weeks while the investigation continues. Authorities are analyzing case elements, including photographs sent by the young woman and her mental state.
The case is being handled with extreme caution given that the accused is a minor. In the Netherlands, the judicial system has special procedures for adolescents. However, the severity of the double crime could have significant implications in how the young woman is prosecuted. Dutch law allows for minors aged 16 and older to be tried as adults in serious cases, which could apply here given the gravity of the charges.
The term therian comes from 'therianthropy,' a spiritual practice where individuals identify as animals in a human body. This community exists primarily on Internet forums and social networks like TikTok, where teenagers share their experiences of animal identification. Unlike furries, who enjoy anthropomorphic art and costumes as a hobby, therians view their identity as a spiritual reality.
Mental health experts specializing in adolescent psychology have expressed concern about how these identifications can affect mental health, especially when combined with other risk factors such as social isolation, online radicalization, or pre-existing psychological conditions.
It is important to note that the vast majority of individuals who identify as therian do not engage in violent behavior, and experts caution against stigmatizing an entire community based on isolated incidents.
Source: El Liberal | Clarín
Alfredo S. Quiroga
