Tragedy in Magdeburg: Christmas market attack shocks Germany
German media are publishing more and more details about Friday's attack at the Christmas market in Magdeburg. According to "Der Spiegel," 50-year-old Taleb Abdul Dżawad stayed several times at the Maritim Hotel in this city in November and December. "According to security sources, he may have been preparing for the attack there," we read.
On Friday evening, a tragedy occurred in Magdeburg when a car drove into the crowd at the Christmas market. German authorities assume it was an attack, and the suspected perpetrator has been detained.
The number of fatalities has risen to five. Saxony-Anhalt Premier Reiner Haseloff reported that over 200 people were injured, many seriously.
Suspect under the influence of drugs?
According to the "Bild" newspaper, the suspect of the attack, 50-year-old Taleb Abdul Dżawad from Saudi Arabia, may have been under the influence of drugs. Preliminary tests showed the presence of intoxicants in his body. This information, as the newspaper states, comes from police circles. Blood tests must ultimately confirm it.
On the other hand, information from "Der Spiegel" indicates that the 50-year-old "stayed several times at the Maritim Hotel in Magdeburg" in November and December.
"According to security sources, he may have been preparing for the attack there," we read.
Reactions from authorities
Saxony-Anhalt Premier Reiner Haseloff expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and offered condolences to the victims' families. He emphasized that the authorities would do everything to clarify the circumstances of the dramatic event. Local authorities assure that residents' safety is a priority.
The attack in Magdeburg shocked the local community, as well as all of Germany. Authorities are calling for calm and cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
The investigation into this matter is ongoing, and police are examining all circumstances of the incident.
Source: PAP / "Der Spiegel" / WP Wiadomości
