A festive evening in the western German city of Solingen turned tragic on Friday night when a man launched a brutal stabbing attack, killing several people and wounding others at a local celebration. The incident, which took place around 9:45 p.m. (1945 GMT), has left the community reeling, as the attacker remains at large.
According to reports from Bild, at least three people lost their lives in the attack, with multiple others injured as the assailant randomly targeted festival-goers. The event, which was part of a celebration marking Solingen’s 650th anniversary, quickly descended into chaos as terrified attendees fled the scene.
Mayor Tim-Oliver Kurzbach expressed his deep sorrow and devastation over the incident. “It tears my heart apart that there was an attack on our city,” he said in a heartfelt statement. “I have tears in my eyes when I think of those we have lost. I pray for all those who are still fighting for their lives.”
The attack occurred at the Fronhof, a bustling market square in Solingen where live bands were performing for the anniversary celebration. The area, usually filled with joy and community spirit, was instead marred by bloodshed and fear as emergency responders rushed to the scene.
Local police have yet to release detailed information about the incident, including the identity of the suspect or the motive behind the attack. As authorities continue their investigation, the community of Solingen is left grappling with the shock of the violence that struck at the heart of their historic celebration.
Solingen, located in North Rhine-Westphalia state near the Dutch border, is not typically known for such violent incidents. Fatal stabbings and shootings are relatively rare in Germany, adding to the shock and horror of Friday’s events. The attack follows a similarly tragic incident in June when a 29-year-old police officer was fatally stabbed in Mannheim during a protest, underscoring growing concerns about public safety in the region.
As Solingen mourns those lost in the attack, local officials are urging residents to stay vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement as they search for the perpetrator of this senseless act.
