‘Tinder Murder’ Perpetrator Dies by Suicide in Prison

Thomas R., the man convicted of the 2022 murder of 21-year-old Mieke Oort in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, has died by suicide although incarcerated, according to reports from Dutch media outlets RTL Nieuws and 112 Groningen. The case gained notoriety as the “Tinder murder” due to the victim and perpetrator meeting through the dating app.

Details of the Crime

Mieke Oort, an American student with Dutch roots, and Thomas R. Initially connected on Tinder in 2021. After Oort ended the relationship and began dating someone else, R. Began stalking her. On March 6, 2022, R. Confronted Oort at a house party in Leeuwarden, where she was seen with her new boyfriend. He subsequently threw a firebomb at her student residence and then stabbed Oort multiple times with a knife, according to NL Times. Oort’s boyfriend was also stabbed and seriously injured.

Legal Proceedings and Sentence

Thomas R. Confessed to the violent acts. In November 2022, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison and ordered to undergo compulsory psychiatric treatment at a TBS institution as reported by NL Times. The Public Prosecution Service had initially recommended a 20-year sentence and TBS treatment.

Reaction to R.’s Death

The news of R.’s suicide has deeply affected Oort’s family. “The unbearable pain of losing Mieke was already there, but this message brings another wave of emotions,” the parents’ lawyer stated, as reported by Hart van Nederland. R.’s sister announced his death on Facebook, stating, “In his desperation, at a moment of deep loneliness, he chose this path. Your battle is over, your life was hard.”

Mental Health and Support

Authorities at the Penitentiary Institution (PI) Zwolle confirmed R.’s death but have released no further details regarding the circumstances.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are concerned about someone who is, resources are available. You can reach out for free and anonymous support via chat at www.113.nl or by phone at 113 or 0800-0113.