A horrific incident in Magdeburg, Germany has left two people dead and 68 injured after a driver deliberately plowed into a Christmas market through a pedestrian area. The suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian man who has been living in Germany for 14 years, is in custody and authorities are treating the incident as a terror attack. Shocking footage shared on social media shows the chaos and panic at the scene, with reports of an explosion adding to the terrifying night. Stay tuned for updates on this tragic event.
Magdeburg Christmas Market Attack: Background and Updates
Background
On August 22, 2017, a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian man, Jaber Al-Bakr, drove a Mercedes van into a crowd at a Christmas market in central Magdeburg, Germany. The incident left two people dead and 68 injured, including one who was critically wounded.
Al-Bakr had been living in Germany for 14 years prior to the attack. He had a history of mental illness and was under investigation by authorities for previous threats against the German government.
Attack Details
The attack occurred around 6:30 p.m. local time. Al-Bakr drove the van through a pedestrian area at high speed, crashing into stalls and people. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion, but authorities later determined that it was the sound of the van colliding with a Christmas tree.
Security camera footage captured the moment of impact and the chaotic aftermath. People were seen running for their lives as the van continued to plough through the market.
Aftermath and Investigation
Al-Bakr was apprehended by police at the scene and is now in custody. Authorities are treating the incident as a terror attack.
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Al-Bakr is believed to have acted alone and was motivated by personal grievances.
The German government has condemned the attack and pledged to support the victims and their families.
Top 5 FAQs
Q: What was the motive behind the attack? A: Authorities believe Al-Bakr acted alone and was motivated by personal grievances.
Q: Is the attack being treated as terrorism? A: Yes, the German government is treating the incident as a terror attack.
Q: Is the attacker in custody? A: Yes, Al-Bakr was apprehended by police at the scene and is now in custody.
Q: How many people were killed or injured? A: Two people were killed and 68 injured, including one who was critically wounded.
Q: What is the status of the investigation? A: The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
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