Magdeburg [Germany]: At least two people were killed, and dozens were injured in a suspected attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday evening, according to a CNN report.
The incident occurred when a car deliberately rammed into a crowd at the bustling holiday market. Saxony-Anhalt Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff confirmed that the victims included an adult and a toddler.
The devastating event left 68 people injured, with 15 sustaining serious injuries, 37 moderately injured, and 16 suffering minor injuries. Emergency responders, including around 100 firefighters and 50 rescue personnel, rushed to the scene to provide immediate medical assistance and transport the wounded to nearby hospitals.
In response to the tragedy, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser expressed her sorrow and shock, stating:
“This news from Magdeburg is deeply shocking. The emergency services are doing everything they can to care for the injured and save lives. All our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” Faeser wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Die erschütternde Tat in #Magdeburg wenige Tage vor Weihnachten trifft uns ins Herz. Wir bangen um das Leben der Schwerverletzten & trauern um die Menschen,die durch diese furchtbare Tat aus dem Leben gerissen wurden. Die Rettungsdienste tun alles,um die Verletzten zu versorgen.
— Nancy Faeser (@NancyFaeser) December 20, 2024
Authorities have since apprehended the suspected driver involved in the attack. Prime Minister Haseloff noted that initial investigations suggest the driver acted alone, adding that there is no further threat to the city.
“We are currently in the process of compiling all further data and also carrying out the interrogation. According to the current information, it is an individual perpetrator, so there is no longer any danger to the city because we were able to arrest him,” Haseloff said in a televised statement.
Security forces continue to investigate the motive behind the attack, assuring the public there are no indications of additional threats. The incident has left the local community deeply shaken, tarnishing the festive spirit of the Christmas market with a tragic loss of life.
As investigations progress, the city mourns its losses and extends support to those injured in the heartbreaking event.