Mayor Burkhard Jung announced that the suspect was taken into custody. According to him, the motives for the attack are still unclear.
The incident happened in a busy area full of people – tourists, shop customers and restaurant visitors. Witnesses told of a loud noise, followed by chaos and attempts by passers-by to render first aid.
Accident in a busy pedestrian area
The incident happened around 4:45 p.m. in the pedestrian area of the commercial Grimmaische Straße, where there were many people at the time.
According to the fire department, about 22 people were injured, two of whom are in serious condition. Dozens of teams were sent to the scene – about 40 firefighters and 40 medics, as well as two helicopters.
How it happened
According to initial information, a 33-year-old German citizen entered the shopping street at high speed with an SUV. The car started from Augustusplatz and traveled about 500 meters through the pedestrian zone.
Witnesses said the car was blocked by a security bollard. Photos show serious damage – a broken windshield and a deformed front cover.
Panic and solidarity
Eyewitnesses report a loud noise from the engine and a crash. People around came to the aid of the victims.
“There was a huge sense of solidarity,” said a witness who was at a nearby establishment.
The area is cordoned off and shops are closed. An on-site investigation is underway.
Context
The incident overshadowed traditional Monday prayers for peace at St. Nicholas Church, a symbol of the protests in the former East Germany.
There have been several similar car attacks in Germany in recent years. Among them are cases in Mannheim, Munich and Magdeburg, where there are also casualties and injuries.
The investigation continues.
