Son kept murdered father's body in the fridge for 3.5 years
The frozen remains of Albert Visser, 67, were discovered in a freezer at his home in Heerhugowaard, police confirmed. Investigators suspect Visser’s son, Tijmen V., 31, killed his father in January 2021 and continued to live in the house with the frozen body for more than three years.
The remains were found on November 11 during a search of the Van Everdingenlaan residence. The investigation, dubbed Operation Hayward, initially focused on the backyard, but police dogs directed authorities to a freezer inside the house. Albert Visser was identified through his fingerprints, which were preserved in the frozen state.
Albert Visser was reported missing in October 2021 by a friend. Although the case was initially deemed urgent, it took more than two years for the search to intensify.
Tijmen V. was arrested on November 12, one day after the discovery of his father’s remains. He is in custody, and his pretrial detention has been extended. Police are investigating how and when Visser died and whether his son is responsible.
Police believe the father and son had frequent conflicts over financial matters, including a dispute involving the family home. In February 2021, Tijmen filed a civil lawsuit against his father over the property. However, Albert did not appear in court, leading investigators to suspect he was already deceased.
A key clue came from a notebook Albert used to record daily utility meter readings. The last entry was dated January 10, 2021, the presumed date of his death.
Neighbors reported frequent arguments between the father and son before Albert's disappearance. They also noted Albert’s erratic behavior, which some described as a source of disturbance in the neighborhood.
"Albert was known to have loud arguments with his son," a neighbor told investigators. "But no one thought it would end like this."
Police are still piecing together the events leading up to Visser’s death. Forensic teams continue to analyze the freezer and other evidence from the home.
"This case is unusual in its circumstances, particularly the extended period during which the victim's remains were hidden," an investigator stated.
Tijmen V.’s legal team has declined to comment on the case. Meanwhile, detectives are focused on gathering sufficient evidence to prove how Visser died and whether his son was directly involved.
