A 24-year-old Afghan asylum-seeker has been identified as the suspect in a car attack that left at least 28 people injured in Munich on Thursday. The driver allegedly ploughed a Mini Cooper into a crowd at a demonstration by the Verdi union in the city centre. Bavarian governor Markus Söder said that authorities suspect it was a deliberate attack.
Police confirmed that the suspect was apprehended at the scene and no longer posed a threat. Local reports suggested that officers fired at the car to subdue him. Emergency responders treated multiple casualties, with at least two people suffering serious injuries. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with debris, including shoes and personal belongings, scattered across the street.
What do we know about the attack?
- The driver allegedly targeted a
Verdi union demonstration in central Munich. - Bavarian governor Markus Söder said the incident is believed to be an attack.
- Police confirmed the suspect was detained and no longer posed a danger.
- Local reports suggested officers fired at the car before arresting the driver.
- Emergency responders treated 28 injured people, including two in serious condition.
- Witnesses described a scene of panic, with personal belongings strewn across the area.
Mayor Dieter Reiter expressed his shock over the incident, confirming that children were among the injured. Fire service spokesman Bernhard Peschke reported that several victims were in life-threatening condition. The attack occurred one day before the Munich Security Conference, which is set to be attended by prominent figures such as US Vice-President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Additionally, the incident comes just ten days before Germany’s parliamentary elections on 23 February, further heightening national tensions.