Updated: At least five people, including a small child, have been killed, and 200 injured after a car drove through a crowded Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. The incident occurred at approximately 7:04 p.m. local time when a black BMW ploughed through a festive crowd for about 400 metres. Authorities have described the incident as a likely deliberate attack.
The Incident
Eyewitnesses reported the car moving unrestrainedly through the market, striking pedestrians and causing panic. The scene was chaotic, with emergency services rushing to treat the injured amidst illuminated market stalls. Photos from the scene depict rescue tents set up and emergency vehicles filling the streets of Magdeburg’s city centre.
Authorities confirmed that five people, an adult and a child, were killed. More than 200 people were injured. According to the German public broadcaster ARD, 41 of them are in critical condition. 90 people were seriously injured, and more than 80 sustained minor injuries. A total of 100 firefighters and 50 emergency responders were deployed.
Suspect in Custody
Police arrested a 50-year-old man identified as Taleb A., a psychiatrist originally from Saudi Arabia who has lived in Germany since 2006. He was reportedly not known to authorities for extremist activities. While investigations are ongoing, the suspect’s motives remain unclear.
Political and Public Reactions
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, commending the swift response of emergency services. Magdeburg’s Minister-President Reiner Haseloff confirmed the fatalities and stated that the General Federal Prosecutor might take over the case due to its severity.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser vowed a thorough investigation, calling the incident “deeply shocking.” Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, along with political leaders including Christian Lindner and Friedrich Merz, expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
The attack rekindled painful memories of the 2016 Berlin Christmas market tragedy, where 12 people were killed by a truck driven into a crowd. Security measures at Christmas markets across Germany had since been heightened.
International Condolences
French President Emmanuel Macron extended his sympathies, stating France shares Germany’s pain. Macron emphasised solidarity with the victims and their families during what he termed a “horrific” event.
Christmas Markets Under Review
In light of the attack, Christmas markets across Germany are reassessing their security protocols. The market in Erfurt temporarily closed as a precaution, though officials reported no direct threats.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are working to verify details of the suspect’s actions and potential motives. Videos from the scene, including footage showing the BMW driving through the market and the suspect’s subsequent arrest, have circulated online. Officials urge caution against drawing conclusions until investigations are complete.
The incident has cast a shadow over the festive season, leaving Germany and the international community in mourning.
