New Delhi: At least two people were killed while over 60 suffered injuries after a car ploughed into a bustling crowd at a Christmas market in Germany’s Magdeburg on Saturday. Emergency services including ambulances and fire engines were rushed into the area to aid the injured and secure the market.
The driver of the car, a 50-year-old medical doctor from Saudi Arabia, has been arrested. According to Saxony-Anhalt state premier Reiner Haseloff, the suspect, who has been living in Germany since 2006, was a lone wolf. “From what we currently know, he was a lone attacker, so we don’t think there is any further danger,” Haseloff said, describing the incident as “catastrophe”.
A rented black BMW with Munich licence plates
The vehicle, a rented black BMW with Munich licence plates, ploughed through the market, leaving behind trail of carnage over 400 metre long. Witnesses described the scene as horrific with cries and screams echoing through the market. According to reports, 15 people have suffered critical injuries, 37 serious injuries, and 16 minor injuries. “The pictures are terrible,” said city spokesman Michael Reif, as authorities urged the public to stay away from the area.
Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack. According to reports in the local media, a piece of luggage was found on the passenger seat of the car, which prompted the bomb disposal squad to examine the vehicle for potential explosives. While officials have not confirmed any links to terrorism, the incident has drawn comparisons to the 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack that killed 12 people.
Olaf Scholz offers condolences
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed condolences on social media, calling the attack “terrible” and extending solidarity to the victims and their families. He is expected to visit Magdeburg.
Magdeburg’s Christmas market, a popular annual attraction with around 140 stalls and an ice-skating rink, was scheduled to run till December 29. The market has been closed for the time being after the incident. “We will not let fear define us,” said state premier Haseloff. “This is a time to stand together in grief and resilience.”
