On Thursday morning, a 24-year-old Afghan asylum-seeker drove a car into a crowd in central Munich, injuring at least 28 people. Authorities have labeled the incident as a “suspected attack” and are investigating potential extremist links. The event occurred just a day before the Munich Security Conference, an international gathering of political and defense leaders. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who is scheduled to attend, was not affected by the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.
The incident prompted a major emergency response. A police officer fired a shot at the vehicle before officers secured and arrested the driver. However, the suspect sustained only minor injuries and was not shot. Authorities confirmed that no other individuals were involved in the attack. Personal belongings, including a stroller, glasses, and shoes, were seen scattered at the scene, highlighting the chaos that unfolded.
Authorities Investigate Extremist Links as Officials Call for Stronger Security Measures
According to law enforcement, the suspect was already known to authorities for past offenses, including drug-related crimes and theft. Due to signs of a possible extremist motive, the investigation has been taken over by the Munich Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Bavarian Central Office for Combating Extremism and Terrorism. Officials are now working to determine whether the attack was ideologically driven or a random act of violence.
Munich Attack Investigated for Extremist Ties as Officials Urge Stronger SecurityBavaria’s Governor Markus Söder described the event as “simply terrible” and emphasized the need for stronger measures to prevent such attacks. Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter also expressed concern, confirming that children were among the injured. The Munich Security Conference organizers issued a statement expressing their condolences and support for the victims and their families.
Attack Sparks Security Concerns Ahead of Munich Conference and Upcoming German Elections
With the Munich Security Conference set to begin on Friday, the attack has raised concerns about public safety. The incident took place near a trade union demonstration, but authorities have not found a direct link between the two events. Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are expected to attend discussions focused on global security issues, including the war in Ukraine.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before a judge on Friday as investigations continue. Authorities are still working to uncover his motives and any possible extremist connections. This attack follows a similar event in December, when a vehicle drove into a Christmas market in eastern Germany, killing five and injuring 200. The incident also comes just 10 days before Germany’s federal elections, adding further urgency to discussions on security and counterterrorism measures.