A vehicle was deliberately driven into crowds during a Berlin Pride celebration on Saturday night, resulting in the death of one woman and leaving 16 others wounded. Authorities have initiated an expansive search for the perpetrator, who remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.
The incident occurred around 22:00 local time at the Tiergarten park, situated near the Brandenburg Gate. The event, known as Christopher Street Day, was immediately terminated following the strike. Reports also indicate that several victims suffered stab wounds during the chaos. Police eventually located the suspect’s vehicle, which had crashed into a tree.
Investigators have identified the suspect as 21-year-old Abdul B. Due to German privacy laws, his full surname is withheld. Official reports link the individual to extremist circles, specifically noting past attempts to join the Islamic State. Having previously served time in pre-trial detention and undergone de-radicalisation efforts, he is now the primary focus of a city-wide manhunt. Authorities are investigating the possibility that others may have fled the vehicle.
Political leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and international heads of government, have condemned the violence. They emphasized the importance of safeguarding fundamental values such as freedom and equality in response to the tragedy.
