The Magdeburg Christmas Market organisers have released an emotional statement in the wake of the harrowing incident that occurred earlier this week. A devastating scene unfolded at the market in Magdeburg, Germany, when a car charged into a crowd, resulting in the tragic death of at least five individuals, including a young child, and leaving over 200 people injured.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reported that up to 40 of those wounded are critically ill. Matthias Schuppe, a regional government spokesperson, alongside city spokesperson Michael Reif, have expressed suspicions that the act was intentional, though it remains unclear whether it was an act of terrorism.
The driver, identified as 50 year old Saudi Arabian national Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, is currently in custody. Investigations continue around a potential explosive device discovered in the black BMW used for the assault.
Al-Abdulmohsen, reportedly a psychologist, had recent Twitter posts suggesting intentions of “slaughtering German citizens indiscriminately”. The market’s website now bears a sombre message: “We are in deep mourning, and our hearts and thoughts are with the victims, relatives and helpers. The Christmas market and the world of lights are over.”
Saxony-Anhalt regional governor Reiner Haseloff said: “This is a terrible event, particularly now in the days before Christmas.” German chancellor Olaf Scholz stated: “My thoughts are with the victims and their families. We stand by their side and by the side of the people of Magdeburg. My thanks go to the dedicated rescue workers in these anxious hours.”
A witness to Friday’s tragic incident recounted that much of the initial aid to the injured was provided by onlookers who had been partaking in the festive cheer just moments earlier. Gianni Warzecha described how he was out with his girlfriend when the vehicle ploughed into the group.
He shared with the BBC: “Suddenly there was a rumbling and the sound of shattered glass. People began to panic. I was next to where it happened. For me it was just the sound first. It took a few minutes for first paramedics to arrive, but it wasn’t enough because there were already 200 people hurt. Most of the first aid was done by people there.”
Tragedy struck as a child aged nine was confirmed to be the youngest among the five fatalities in the horrific Christmas market incident, amid claims that German authorities dismissed alerts that the suspect posed a threat.
Approximately 1,000 mourners, which included government figures and emergency services personnel, attended an emotional tribute at Magdeburg Cathedral yesterday. Many attendees participated in a candlelit homage, others brought flowers and soft toys, while a large screen outside the cathedral broadcasted the service for the gathered crowd.
At the sombre gathering, Friedrich Kramer, Regional Bishop of the Evangelical Church in Central Germany, lamented: “The peaceful space of the Christmas market has been destroyed and crushed. We will not give the perpetrator our hate. Instead, we will stand for peace and unity. The safest space of peace you can protect is your heart.”
Meanwhile, Lord Mayor Simone Borris expressed her gratitude towards the emergency services for their bravery during the crisis, stating: “Many of our rescue workers have seen things they will never forget. I am confident we can overcome this grief together with our solidarity.”