Van Attacks People at Berlin’s Pride Event

In Berlin, a tragic incident occurred during the city’s LGBTQ+ event as a van struck attendees, resulting in one death and at least 16 injuries. The accident caused authorities to halt the celebrations and a concert that had just started in the German capital. Police reported that several victims sustained life-threatening injuries.

Police issued an urgent message via social media, requesting people leave the event site immediately as emergency responders addressed the situation. Officer Florian Nath stated that an intensive search for potential suspects is underway. Alexander Klute, a police spokesperson, explained to The Associated Press that no information was available regarding motives or identities of the person or persons responsible.

According to police, a white van drove into Tiergarten park around 10 p.m., adjacent to where the pride march had previously taken place, hitting several individuals and crashing into a tree.

Police did not disclose the exact number of officers present but confirmed that numerous personnel were deployed. Over 2,200 officers were on duty that day to ensure safety at the pride parade and other LGBTQ+ events in Berlin. Investigations included witness interviews in the park, exploring reports of victims possibly having stab wounds, although it was premature to derive conclusions from those accounts.

Berlin’s Mayor Kai Wegner conveyed shock at the incident, describing it as “an attack on our free and cosmopolitan society” following a peaceful pride parade. Wegner expressed confidence in the police and security forces committed to identifying those responsible.

Authorities advised witnesses to provide any images or footage they may have captured at the scene. Additionally, a crisis hotline was activated for those unable to locate friends or family members.

Hundreds of thousands had traveled to Berlin for the pride parade, known as Christopher Street Day, one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ events. Following the incident, the iconic event and a band’s performance were abruptly stopped, and attendees were encouraged to avoid the park route. Prior to the attack, the celebrations were peaceful, with participants enjoying music and supporting the parade’s 80 floats.

Julian Miethig, a participant, shared his disbelief at the situation, describing the day as “dark” for the community after planning to attend an afterparty and receiving distressing news.