Car Plows into Crowd in Mannheim – One Dead, Several Injured
Major Police Operation in Mannheim
A major police operation is underway in Mannheim after a car drove into a crowd in the city center. According to police reports, at least one person has died, and multiple others have been injured. Authorities have arrested a suspect, and investigations are ongoing.
Incident Details
The tragic incident occurred on Monday at approximately 12:15 PM at the central Paradeplatz in Mannheim. Emergency services and heavily armed police officers have cordoned off the area, and a helicopter has been deployed to assist in the operation. The authorities have urged residents to avoid the city center and remain indoors for safety reasons.
Unclear Motive and Possible Threats
As of now, the motive behind the incident remains unknown. The police have not ruled out the possibility of further danger and have warned the public through the emergency alert app Katwarn about a "life-threatening situation." Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the driver intentionally targeted the market stalls and the gathered crowd.
Emergency Response and Medical Support
The University Hospital of Mannheim has activated its emergency response plan to prepare for a mass casualty event. Eight trauma teams, including specialists for both adults and children, have been mobilized. Non-urgent surgeries have been postponed to free up operating rooms, and intensive care capacities have been expanded.
Authorities and Crisis Talks
Local authorities, including Mannheim's Mayor Christian Specht and Interior Minister Thomas Strobl, are currently assessing the situation in crisis talks. Additionally, police have set up psychological support for those affected and have established a helpline for witnesses and victims.
Similar Incidents in Recent Months
This incident follows a series of similar attacks involving vehicles in Germany. In December, six people were killed in Magdeburg when a 50-year-old doctor drove through a Christmas market. More recently, in mid-February, a man drove into a group of protesters in Munich, resulting in the deaths of a young woman and a child.
About Mannheim
Mannheim, located in northern Baden-Württemberg near the borders of Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, is the state's second-largest city with a population of approximately 320,000. The city is currently hosting a Fasnacht carnival market, which was set to continue until Tuesday.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow official instructions as the situation continues to develop. More updates will follow as new information emerges.
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