Maps
Magazine

WORLD NEWS

Car-Ramming Attack on German Christmas Market Kills 5, Injures Over 200
A tragic car-ramming attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, has killed five and injured more than 200. Chancellor Scholz condemns the attack and calls for national unity.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-21
Car-Ramming Attack on German Christmas Market Kills 5, Injures Over 200

A devastating car-ramming attack on a German Christmas market in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, has resulted in the deaths of five people and left more than 200 others injured, with around 40 critically wounded. The attack took place on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the country and prompting swift condemnations from both German officials and leaders around the world.

Saxony-Anhalt state premier Reiner Haseloff confirmed the toll and expressed his condolences to the victims' families. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who was with Haseloff in Magdeburg to pay respects to the victims, condemned the attack as a “terrible catastrophe.” He also expressed deep concern for the 40 critically injured individuals, adding that the full force of the law would be brought to bear on the perpetrators of this heinous act.

Scholz, speaking from the site of the tragedy, highlighted the emotional significance of the attack, especially given that it occurred just days before the anniversary of the 2016 truck attack on a Berlin Christmas market, which claimed the lives of 12 people and injured dozens more.

The Chancellor called for national unity in the wake of the attack, amid growing debates on immigration and security in Germany. He urged the country to stand together, emphasizing that “it is not hatred that determines our coexistence but the fact that we are a community that seeks a common future.”

Scholz also expressed gratitude for the expressions of solidarity from countries around the world, noting that Germany was not alone in facing this tragedy. International leaders, including those from the EU and beyond, have offered their condolences and support.

As Germany prepares for elections in February, the attack has once again brought the issues of immigration, security, and national cohesion into the spotlight. The government’s response to the attack will likely be a key topic in the upcoming election debates, with many calling for tougher measures on security and immigration.

The identity of the attacker has not been disclosed, but the police have launched a full investigation into the incident, with security measures expected to be heightened across the country in the coming days.

In the aftermath of the attack, people across Germany have expressed their shock and sorrow, with many leaving flowers and candles at the scene of the Christmas market in Magdeburg. The attack has reminded the country of the vulnerability of public spaces during the holiday season and the need for heightened vigilance in the face of rising security threats.
Tagged:

germany

ChristmasMarketAttack

Magdeburg

OlafScholz
Share News: