The organisers of the Magdeburg Christmas Market have released a touching statement in the wake of the harrowing incident that occurred earlier this week. A tragic event unfolded when a car careered into a crowd at the market located in Magdeburg, Germany, resulting in the death of at least five individuals, including a young child.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has reported that up to 40 of the 200 people hurt remain in a critical condition.
Matthias Schuppe, a spokesperson for the regional government, alongside city representative Michael Reif, have expressed their belief that the act was intentional, though it remains unclear whether it is connected to terrorism.
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Authorities have detained a 50 year old man from Saudi Arabia, identified as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, in connection with the incident. The police are currently investigating a potential explosive device discovered within the black BMW that was used in the attack. Recent tweets allegedly from the suspect, who is reportedly a psychologist, spoke of “slaughtering German citizens indiscriminately”.
A sombre message has been posted on the market’s official website, stating: “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 expressed his grief, stating: “This is a terrible event, particularly now in the days before Christmas.”
In a show of national solidarity, Chancellor Olaf Scholz shared his sentiments, saying: “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.”
An eyewitness to the horrific incident on Friday recounted the chaos that ensued as the car ploughed into the crowd, just as they were partaking in festive activities. Gianni Warzecha was at the scene with his girlfriend when tragedy struck.
He recounted to 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.”
In a sombre development, a child aged nine was sadly confirmed as the youngest victim among the five fatalities of the Christmas market attack. This came amidst claims that German authorities had overlooked red flags indicating the perpetrator posed a threat.
Around 1,000 individuals, ranging from everyday citizens to government officials, gathered at Magdeburg Cathedral in a poignant tribute to those lost. The congregation, many carrying candles, others bearing flowers and toys, attended a moving memorial service.
A large screen outside the cathedral allowed those unable to enter the chance to join in the collective mourning.
At the event, Friedrich Kramer, Regional Bishop of the Evangelical Church in Central Germany, conveyed his distress: “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.”
Expressing gratitude towards the emergency personnel, Lord Mayor Simone Borris praised their bravery, “Many of our rescue workers have seen things they will never forget. I am confident we can overcome this grief together with our solidarity.”