APRIL 2, 2024

7 KNUTS

HEAD OBLIVIATOR STRUCK DOWN

Head Obliviator, Lawrence Faulkner (43), was found dead at his home on Easter. The family's house elf reported the crime and brought it to the Aurors' attention that Faulkner's elder son, Niklas (17), has gone missing.

De facto heir of this notable pureblood family, Niklas is described by his peers as quiet, unremarkable and clumsy. Although it was briefly speculated that he had been kidnapped by his father's murderer(s), multiple sources of evidence now point at him as the real culprit of this crime:

(1) the family's house elf admitted that there had been strife between its late master and his elder son;
(2) all of Niklas' belongings are missing from his dormitory at Hogwarts, indicating that he knew he would not be returning;
(3) valuables and food are missing from the house, along with the bulk of Niklas' belongings - which hints at a hasty yet organized departure.

Judging by the lack of injuries on the body of the deceased, it is assumed that the Killing Curse was used. The spell is most certainly not taught at Hogwarts - there is cause to suspect that Niklas Faulkner has learned it on his own. That makes him a dangerous, premeditating criminal. In addition, an examination of the victim's wand has revealed that a number of non-lethal offensive spells have been used right before his demise. It is possible that the late Lawrence Faulkner, assaulted by his elder son, tried to defend himself by disabling his attacker.

The precise cause of this conflict is unknown, but it is suspected that Lawrence may have intended to name his younger son - a bright and talented boy of 14, currently studying at Durmstrang Institute - as his heir. This could have pushed Niklas into a blind rage. If his predisposition to violent behavior was known by the family, sending his younger brother to study overseas may have been an attempt to keep the boy safe from the jealousy of his older sibling.

So far there has been no information regarding Niklas Faulkner's current whereabouts. It is assumed that he is still in the country, although it is possible that he has crossed the border to Scotland. Our readers are encouraged to report any sightings of the suspect.