Sat Dec 21 13:42:12 UTC 2024: ## Car Plows into Magdeburg Christmas Market, Killing Two and Injuring Dozens
**Magdeburg, Germany** – A horrific incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, eastern Germany, left at least two people dead and 68 injured Friday evening after a vehicle plowed into a crowd. Among the victims is a young child. Fifteen individuals remain in critical condition.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos and carnage, with one comparing the aftermath to a “war zone.” Videos circulating on social media appear to show a dark BMW speeding into the market’s throng of people.
Authorities have arrested a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian medical doctor, identified as Taleb A., who has lived in Germany since 2006 and was granted refugee status in 2016. German state premier Reiner Haseloff described the event as a “terrible event” and stated that the suspect, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, is believed to be a lone perpetrator and that there is no further known danger to the city. A police operation also took place in Bernburg, where the suspect reportedly resided.
Hospitals within an 80km radius are treating the injured, with Magdeburg’s University Hospital reporting 10 to 20 patients and preparing for more. The initial number of injured was reported as high as 80. Police initially investigated the possibility of an explosive device in the vehicle but later confirmed none was found.
International condemnation poured in, with Saudi Arabia expressing solidarity with Germany and its people. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, along with Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, are scheduled to visit Magdeburg Saturday. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his condolences, while leaders from the UK and France also voiced their horror and support. The investigation into the motive behind the attack is ongoing.
First Piper 