HAMBURG, Germany — A knife attack at Hamburg’s central station left at least 12 people injured Friday evening, prompting a swift police response and raising renewed concerns over public safety in Germany’s transport hubs.
Authorities confirmed the arrest of the suspected assailant shortly after the incident. The motive behind the attack remains unknown.
According to a report by Bild newspaper, three of the victims are in critical condition, three more sustained serious injuries, and six others were treated for minor wounds. The mass stabbing took place at one of Germany’s busiest railway stations, causing panic among commuters and temporarily disrupting rail service.
Hamburg police said in a post on social media platform X that officers responded to reports of multiple people injured by a knife-wielding individual at the station. The suspect was taken into custody at the scene.
Emergency services flooded the area within minutes, providing aid to the injured and securing the perimeter as forensic teams began their investigation. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the attack was politically, ideologically, or personally motivated.
Germany has experienced a series of knife attacks in recent years, some linked to extremist ideologies and others to mental health issues, heightening public anxiety about random violence in public spaces.
Police are expected to release further details following an initial investigation into the identity of the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the attack.
