Germany: Scholz Visits Magdeburg Attack Site as Death Toll Reaches 5

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Magdeburg on Saturday to survey the situation following a tragic SUV attack at the city’s Christmas market, where five people were killed and more than 200 were injured. The attack happened on Friday night as the vehicle ran over the packed market.

Police arrested a 50-year-old Saudi man, Taleb A., a psychiatric doctor, who has been living in Germany since 2006 and had a permanent residency permit, German media reported. Authorities have not yet established a motive, though, whether the attack was politically or religiously motivated or part of psychological issues is unclear. Taleb A.’s social media history showed criticism of Islam, support for far-right ideologies, and warnings about the “dangers” of Islamisation in Germany.

Chancellor Scholz thanked international leaders for their solidarity, saying, “It is very positive to hear that Germany is not alone.” He demanded a thorough investigation, insisting, “We should not let those who want to sow hate do so.” National and regional politicians, all dressed in black, laid flowers outside Magdeburg’s main church to honor the victims.

The Christmas market, described as a scene of devastation with debris and broken glass strewn across the town hall square, has been permanently closed. “Christmas in Magdeburg is over,” declared Ronni Krug, the city councillor for public order.

To respect the slain, Saxony-Anhalt ordered its interior ministry to post flags at its government buildings and to fly at half-mast. The tragedy has resulted in numerous vehicle-ramming attacks on traditional German festival markets, saddening the whole of Germany to tears. “The motive remains mysterious,” wrote Der Spiegel concerning the recent attack.