A car ploughed into a bustling Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg on Friday evening.
The attack resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, including a toddler, and left dozens injured, with 15 people sustaining serious injuries.
The suspect, identified as a 50-year-old doctor from Saudi Arabia residing in Saxony-Anhalt since 2006, was apprehended shortly after the incident.
According to Reiner Haseloff, the Prime Minister of Saxony-Anhalt, the suspect had rented the vehicle used in the attack. "We will fly the flags at half-mast to express what a tragedy has taken place here and that we all share in the suffering that has been inflicted on people," Haseloff stated.
Emergency services were quick to respond, deploying around 100 firefighters and 50 rescue personnel to the scene. Due to the overwhelming number of casualties, some of the injured were transported to a hospital in the nearby city of Halle for treatment, while those with minor injuries received care at a nearby shopping center and a tram converted into a care center.
The area surrounding the car was initially cordoned off amid fears of an explosive device, but police later confirmed that no such device was found.
The White House is closely monitoring the situation, with U.S. officials in contact with their German counterparts to offer support. European leaders, including President of the European Council António Costa and French President Emmanuel Macron, have extended their condolences.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his solidarity with the victims and the people of Magdeburg, stating, "We are at their side and at the side of the people of Magdeburg. My thanks go to the dedicated rescue workers in these anxious hours." A memorial service is scheduled to take place at Magdeburg Cathedral on Saturday evening.
The Christmas market, which features approximately 140 stalls, an ice skating rink, a ferris wheel, and a children's play area, was set to run from November 22 through December 29.
The attack has prompted widespread mourning across Germany, particularly in Saxony-Anhalt, where the market is located. Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry condemned the attack, affirming its stance against violence and extending sympathy to the families of the deceased and the German nation.
As investigations continue, the community remains in shock, grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event during what should be a time of joy and celebration.
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