A tragic incident unfolded on Friday at a bustling Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg, as a car plowed into a crowd of shoppers, resulting in the deaths of five people and leaving more than 200 injured. The festive atmosphere was shattered as emergency services rushed to assist the victims and secure the area.
The suspect, identified as 50-year-old Taleb Jawad al-Abdulmohsen, was apprehended by authorities shortly after the attack. Al-Abdulmohsen, a Saudi refugee from a Shiite family who had publicly declared himself an atheist and “anti-Islam,” is currently in custody as investigations continue into his motives and background.
In the wake of the tragedy, approximately 2,000 people gathered outside Magdeburg Cathedral to attend a memorial mass, paying their respects to the victims and showing solidarity with their grieving families. The community came together, lighting candles and leaving flowers at the site, a somber reminder of the fragility of peace during the holiday season.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the site of the attack on Saturday, dressed in black as a sign of mourning. He spoke with local officials and first responders, expressing his condolences and emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier joined victims’ families and emergency responders at a memorial service held at Magdeburg Cathedral. His presence underscored the national significance of the event and the collective grief experienced throughout Germany.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation and prompted discussions on security measures at public events, especially during the holiday season. Authorities are urging vigilance while reassuring the public that steps are being taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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5 dead, 200 injured in car attack on Christmas market in Germany
cgtn.com
