Tragedy at Magdeburg Christmas Market: Car Attack Leaves Two Dead, Dozens Injured

Europe

According to German media reports: In a shocking incident on Friday night, a car was driven into a crowd at the Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, killing two people, including a child, and injuring 68 others, 15 seriously.

Authorities have arrested the suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi national and doctor with permanent residency in Germany since 2006. Police confirmed he acted alone and used a rental car for the attack.

Emergency services quickly responded, with Magdeburg University Hospital receiving the first 10-20 victims and preparing additional intensive care beds for the injured. The Christmas market has been closed, and investigations are ongoing.

The incident has drawn widespread shock and condolences from leaders, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who acknowledged the “abrupt interruption” of peaceful holiday festivities. Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck and Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also extended their sympathies to the victims and their families.

This attack evokes memories of the tragic 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack, though no immediate connections have been drawn. Magdeburg, the capital of Saxony-Anhalt with a population of around 240,000, now grapples with the aftermath of this harrowing event.