In Berlin, a van struck attendees at a celebrated LGBTQ+ event on Saturday night. One individual lost their life, while at least 16 others sustained injuries. In response, police terminated the festivities and a concert shortly after they started in the German capital.
Authorities indicated that some victims were critically injured. Officials urged attendees to evacuate the area promptly as ambulances and firefighters tended to the scene. Officer Florian Nath conveyed via a Berlin police video post that an intense search for suspects was underway.
Police spokesperson Alexander Klute revealed no information about potential motives or the identity of the culprit. A white van entered Tiergarten park around 10 p.m., hitting people and colliding with a tree. This park is adjacent to the parade route.
Police did not specify the number of officers present but remarked a substantial police presence. Over 2,200 officers had been deployed in Berlin throughout the day to safeguard the pride parade and related LGBTQ+ activities.
“Following a peaceful and vibrant pride parade, the rally for a tolerant and peaceful Berlin was attacked in the most brutal manner,” remarked Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner.
On-site witness interviews occurred overnight, and investigators examined reports of potential stab wounds. However, leaders cautioned that conclusions were premature.
Mayor Wegner condemned the attack, emphasizing its assault on a liberal society. He expressed confidence in the investigative efforts of police and security personnel. The city urged witnesses to provide any videos or photos taken at the incident site. Additionally, a crisis hotline for those searching for friends or relatives had been activated.
The pride parade, or Christopher Street Day as known in Germany, drew hundreds of thousands to Berlin, forming one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ festivals.
The iconic pride event at Brandenburg Gate near Tiergarten halted around 10:15 p.m., ceasing a band’s live performance. Attendees were advised against exiting through the park. Celebrations had previously unfolded peacefully with festive parades and participants cheering the 80 parade floats.
Julian Miethig, present at the Brandenburg Gate celebration earlier, shared his intended visit to an afterparty was interrupted by news of the tragedy. “It’s a dark day for the community,” he stated, experiencing disbelief at the events during the pride festivities.
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