close
close

Several dead and injured in knife attack in West Germany

German police said on Saturday they were still searching for an unidentified attacker hours after he killed three people and injured others in a knife attack at a festival in the western city of Solingen.

Eight people were injured, five of them seriously, police said early Saturday. Police had previously reported four seriously injured people.

“Both victims and witnesses are currently being questioned. The police are currently conducting a major search for the perpetrator,” the police statement said.

As Bild reported, the incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. At least three people were killed and at least four injured.

Witnesses said the perpetrator was at large, the newspaper added. According to witnesses, the perpetrator was an Arab-looking man, Bild reported.

Solingen's mayor Tim Kurzbach wrote on Facebook: “All of us in Solingen are full of shock, horror and deep sadness this evening. We wanted to celebrate our city's birthday together, but now we are mourning the dead and injured. It breaks my heart that our city has suffered an attack. I have tears in my eyes when I think of those we have lost. I pray for all those who are still fighting for their lives.”

“My deepest sympathy also goes out to everyone who had to witness this – it must have been terrible. I thank all rescue and security forces for their efforts,” he continued.

Police officers secure the incident area after several people were killed on Friday evening when a man randomly stabbed passers-by with a knife during a city festival in Solingen, Germany, on August 24, 2024. (Source: REUTERS/THILO SCHMUELGEN)

“I ask you, if you believe, pray with me, and if not, hope with me,” he concluded.

The festival celebrated the city’s 650th anniversary

The local newspaper “Solinger Tageblatt” reported on its website that the attack took place during a celebration to mark the city’s 650th anniversary.

The crime occurred in a busy downtown square where a stage was set up and live bands were playing, Bild reported.

Stay up to date with the latest news!

Subscribe to the Jerusalem Post newsletter

According to police, the attack took place during a celebration to mark the city's 650th anniversary.

“There are several dead and injured in a knife attack,” police said in a post on X.

Local police said they could not comment over the phone.

The festival was cancelled because a manhunt is underway. A police helicopter circled the crime scene, Bild reported, and special forces have arrived on site.

Roads were closed and residents were asked to stay at home and avoid the city center.



You may also like...