Munich, Germany – February 13, 2025 (Imaginate Picture)
In a shocking incident that has left the city of Munich reeling, a car deliberately drove into a crowd of demonstrators near the central train station on Thursday afternoon, injuring at least 28 people, including children. The attack, which occurred during a public sector strike, has raised serious concerns about public safety and security in the lead-up to Germany’s federal elections later this month.
Timeline of the Incident (EST Time Zone)
→ 8:45 AM EST:
A 24-year-old Afghan asylum-seeker, identified by authorities as the driver, was seen maneuvering his vehicle near the protest area. The demonstration, organized by Germany’s public sector trade union Verdi, involved childcare workers striking over stalled wage negotiations. Hundreds of protesters had gathered, carrying banners and chanting slogans.
→ 8:50 AM EST:
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the driver overtake a police car that was accompanying the demonstration. Moments later, he accelerated into the crowd, striking dozens of people. The scene quickly descended into chaos, with victims lying on the ground and bystanders rushing to help.
→ 8:55 AM EST:
Police officers on the scene fired shots at the vehicle in an attempt to stop the driver. The car eventually came to a halt, and the suspect was apprehended. Authorities confirmed that the driver was known to them for prior offenses, including drug-related crimes and theft.
→ 9:10 AM EST:
Emergency services arrived at the scene, treating the injured and transporting them to nearby hospitals. At least two victims were reported to be in critical condition, while others sustained serious injuries. Debris from the crash, including hi-vis jackets, umbrellas, and a stroller, littered the area.
→ 10:00 AM EST:
Munich’s mayor, Dieter Reiter, addressed the media, stating that he was “deeply shaken” by the incident. Bavarian Governor Markus Söder described the event as a “suspected attack” and announced heightened security measures across the city.
Details of the Attack
The attack took place just 1.5 kilometers from the venue of the Munich Security Conference, one of the world’s most prominent gatherings of global leaders. The conference, set to begin the following day, was expected to host high-profile attendees, including US Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Authorities have confirmed that there is no direct link between the attack and the conference.
The driver’s motives remain unclear, and investigators are working to determine whether the act was politically motivated or driven by personal grievances. While no group has claimed responsibility, the incident has reignited debates about Germany’s asylum policies and public safety measures.
Reactions and Aftermath
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and citizens alike. Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, vowing to ensure that such an incident would not happen again.
The incident has also brought back painful memories of the 2024 Magdeburg Christmas market attack, in which six people were killed and over 300 injured. With Germany’s federal elections scheduled for February 23, the attack has intensified discussions about security and immigration policies.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have assured the public that the situation is under control and that there is no immediate threat of further attacks. However, security has been tightened across Munich, particularly around the Security Conference venue and other high-profile locations.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about how the driver was able to carry out the attack despite being known to law enforcement. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the challenges faced by cities in balancing public safety with the right to peaceful protest.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Reporting by Source, Munich.
