21-12-2024 (BERLIN) A vehicle was deliberately driven into a crowded Christmas market in Magdeburg on Friday evening, claiming the lives of two people—an adult and a child—and leaving scores injured in what authorities are treating as a targeted attack.
The suspect, identified as a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian national who has resided in Germany since 2006 and worked as a physician in a town 40 kilometres south of Magdeburg, was apprehended at the scene. The incident has sent shockwaves through the nation and prompted heightened security measures across Europe.
According to Michael Reif, Magdeburg’s official spokesman, more than 65 people sustained injuries, with 14 victims in critical condition. The vehicle travelled approximately 365 metres through the market before coming to a halt, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
Saxony-Anhalt’s Governor Reiner Haseloff, speaking at an emergency press conference, appeared visibly distressed as he addressed the tragedy. “Each life lost in this senseless attack represents an unbearable tragedy,” he stated, as authorities launched a comprehensive investigation into the perpetrator’s motives.
Incredible! Terrorism in Germany – a man rams a car through a popular Christmas market.
He’s allegedly a refugee/migrant from Saudi Arabia. ISIS attack?
Meanwhile, German politicians partner with Al Qaeda in Syria. What a bunch of dysfunctional leaders in Europe! pic.twitter.com/ufMwFjTUkF
— S.L. Kanthan (@Kanthan2030) December 20, 2024
The Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry swiftly issued a statement expressing solidarity with Germany and the victims’ families, though notably omitted any reference to the suspect’s nationality.
Germany’s Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the attack as a blow “to the heart” of the nation, particularly given its proximity to the Christmas holiday. The incident has reignited concerns about the security of Germany’s beloved Christmas markets, which number over 1,000 nationwide and have previously been targeted by extremists.
The attack comes amid heightened security concerns in Germany, with former domestic intelligence chief Thomas Haldenwang having warned of increased threats linked to Middle Eastern tensions before his departure in November.
The historic city of Magdeburg, home to 240,000 residents and formerly part of East Germany, saw its traditional market celebration in the old town square transform into a scene of chaos. Verified surveillance footage shows the vehicle ploughing through crowds of festive shoppers before making a sharp turn into another populated area.
In response to the attack, international security measures have been enhanced, with New York City’s Police Department deploying additional resources to Christmas markets across the metropolis as a precautionary measure.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz took to social media to express his concern, stating that his thoughts were with the victims and their families as the nation grapples with this latest act of violence against one of its most cherished holiday traditions.
