A car plowed into a group of pedestrians in the southwestern German city of Mannheim on Monday, leaving at least two people dead and injuring multiple others, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred in the city’s central pedestrian area near Paradenplatz, triggering a large-scale police operation. Initial reports indicated that one person had died at the scene, while a second victim later succumbed to their injuries, according to German news agency dpa, citing security sources.
Police and Emergency Response Ongoing
Local media reported that as many as 25 people may have been injured, though authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number. Mannheim University Hospital declared a disaster response situation, stating that it was treating three seriously injured victims, including two adults and a child.
Police swiftly apprehended the suspected driver, who was located following a search operation. However, authorities have not yet released details on the suspect’s identity or possible motives.
Emergency services have urged the public to avoid the city center, warning of ongoing traffic disruptions as law enforcement officers, including a police helicopter, patrol the area and conduct traffic checks on nearby bridges.
Authorities Warn Against Misinformation
Following the attack, Mannheim police issued a public advisory, cautioning citizens against the spread of false information.
“Numerous fake news reports are circulating in connection with the crime,” police stated, urging people to rely only on official sources for updates and avoid sharing videos of the incident on social media.
Details of the Vehicle and Incident
Witnesses described the car as a dark-colored or black compact SUV that was speeding before striking pedestrians in the busy shopping district.
Mannheim, a city of 300,000 people, is located about 80 kilometers south of Frankfurt. The attack comes just weeks after a similar car-ramming incident in Munich, which left two people dead.
While Mannheim’s annual carnival parade took place on Sunday, the city center remained crowded with activity on Monday, raising concerns about public safety in the wake of recent attacks.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, with further updates expected as the situation develops.
