“Witcher” fan in Russia attacks passerby with sword after dispute

A fan of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt in Russia has become the subject of a criminal investigation after allegedly striking a passerby with a sword during a confrontation in a forest area in Irkutsk.

The young man had reportedly taken part in a medieval-themed role-playing event where participants reenacted fantasy-style combat scenes inspired by the Witcher universe and its protagonist Geralt, according to the Telegram channel Baza.

After the event, he headed home still dressed in costume with two swords strapped to his back.

A local resident approached the man and began criticising the appearance of the “monster hunter.”

In response, the participant allegedly struck the man on the head with one of the swords.

It was later determined that the weapon was a prop rather than a real sword, allowing the victim to avoid serious injuries. The man later sought medical treatment on his own.

Police confiscated both swords following the incident. Despite the weapons being replicas, investigators classified the suspect’s actions as intentional infliction of grievous bodily harm.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov