A tragic incident unfolded on Friday evening at a bustling Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg. A car plowed into a crowd of shoppers and visitors, resulting in the deaths of five people and injuring more than 200 others. The festive atmosphere was shattered as emergency services rushed to the scene to provide aid and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
The suspect, identified as 50-year-old Taleb Jawad al-Abdulmohsen, was apprehended shortly after the attack. Al-Abdulmohsen, a Saudi refugee from a Shiite family, had declared himself an atheist and expressed anti-Islam sentiments, according to local authorities. Investigations are underway to determine the motive behind the attack and whether it was an isolated incident or part of a larger threat.
In response to the tragedy, approximately 2,000 people gathered outside the Magdeburg Cathedral on Saturday to attend a memorial mass honoring the victims. The somber event was marked by candlelight vigils and moments of silence. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, dressed in black as a sign of mourning, visited the site of the attack to pay his respects and meet with local officials and emergency responders.
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier joined families of the victims and first responders at a memorial service held at Magdeburg Cathedral. In his address, President Steinmeier expressed his deepest condolences to the families affected and commended the swift actions of the emergency services. He emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of such tragic events.
The Magdeburg community, along with the rest of Germany, is reeling from the attack that has cast a shadow over the holiday season. Security measures at public events have been heightened nationwide as authorities work to prevent similar incidents. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.
This event has deeply impacted not only the local community but also resonates with people worldwide who value peace and safety during festive occasions. As investigations continue, the thoughts and prayers of many are with the victims and their loved ones affected by this heartbreaking incident.
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5 dead, 200 injured in car attack on Christmas market in Germany
cgtn.com
