Grief and Protest: Magdeburg's Christmas market after a fatal attack is shaken

Grief and Protest: Magdeburg's Christmas market after a fatal attack is shaken

in a city that is shaken by grief and horror, people gather in Magdeburg to commemorate the victims of a terrible attack. On Friday evening, a doctor raced to an overcrowded Christmas market by car and left a trace of horror: at least five dead, including four women and a nine -year -old child, as well as 200 injuries, many of whom are seriously injured. The city with its 240,000 inhabitants, about 130 kilometers west of Berlin, is in shock.

The city's bells heralded on Saturday at 7:04 p.m., exactly at the time when the mischief started. A moving memorial service took place in the cathedral, which was primarily intended for the members of the victims, rescue workers and invited guests, including German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Many who could not participate gathered in front of the church to track the ceremony on a large screen. Hundreds of flowers laid down on the central square of the city and lit candles - a silent sign of solidarity and commemoration.

a shocking incident

The alleged perpetrator, a 50-year-old immigrant from Saudi Arabia, faced the police. He is examined for five murder and 205 times attempted murder. The investigators check whether the attack was motivated in Germany to treat Saudi refugees in Germany. A government office stated that a warning had already been received last year about the suspect, which, however, did not lead to a further investigation.

The reports on the suspect, who worked as a specialist in psychiatry and psychotherapy, ensure additional concern. On his X profile, he expressed extremist and showed sympathy for right-wing extremist parties, including the alternative for Germany. Saudi Arabia had warned the German authorities after the man had expressed “extremist” views that threatened public security.

reactions and consequences

Violence not only shaken Magdeburg, but also prompted other cities in Germany to cancel its Christmas markets from precautionary measures and solidarity with the victims. In Berlin, on the other hand, the markets remained open, but the police presence was reinforced to ensure security.

The tragedy is reminiscent of a similar incident eight years ago when a man with a truck raced into a crowded Christmas market in Berlin and killed 13 people. Germany has experienced a number of attacks in recent years that frighten society. The investigation into this shocking incident in Magdeburg is ongoing, while the city is in deep grief for lost life.