WELT reports police apprehended a Saudi Arabian-born man at the scene.
A BMW drove into Magdeburg’s Christmas market Friday evening, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and up to 80 injuries, according to BILD. Local media reports characterize the incident as a suspected terrorist attack.
The vehicle reportedly sped 400 meters through the market near the city hall at 7:04 pm local time, causing widespread panic. Eyewitnesses described the car directly targeting the crowd amid screams.
Emergency responders established treatment centers, transporting 10 to 20 initial patients to University Hospital Magdeburg, which prepared additional intensive care beds.
Authorities detained the driver. WELT, citing security sources, identifies the suspect as a 49-year-old Saudi Arabian man who rented the car shortly beforehand. The investigation is underway to determine if he acted alone.
“This is a terrible event, especially before Christmas,” said Saxony-Anhalt’s Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff, visiting Magdeburg. “The images are horrific,” added city spokesman Michael Reif.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz offered condolences online: “The reports from Magdeburg are grim. My thoughts are with the victims and their families. We stand with them and the people of Magdeburg.”
German political figures expressed shock. CDU leader Friedrich Merz stated: “This is devastating news from Magdeburg. My thoughts are with the victims and their families. I thank the emergency services caring for the injured.”
AfD leader Alice Weidel added: “The images from Magdeburg are shocking! My thoughts are with the bereaved and injured. When will this madness end?”
Authorities closed the Christmas market and urged people to leave the area. “Please allow emergency services to work and depart the market orderly,” organizers announced on Instagram.
German leaders expressed shock and offered condolences. CDU’s Friedrich Merz described the news as “very depressing,” while AfD’s Alice Weidel called it “shocking” and questioned, “When will this madness end?”
The investigation into the driver’s identity and motive continues. Further updates on casualties and the situation are expected.
Unverified videos circulating online purportedly show the car entering the market.
Die Fachkraft von Magdeburg…..
— Daniel (@DanielD19662449)
Other videos show people on the ground and a significant police presence. These videos are also unverified.
Was ist in Magdeburg passiert? Das Übliche mal wieder?
— consooole (@consoool_e)
Magdeburg, west of Berlin, is the capital of Saxony-Anhalt, with a population of around 240,000.