Tragedy at Magdeburg Christmas Market: One Dead, Dozens Injured

A devastating incident unfolded at the Magdeburg Christmas market in eastern Germany on Friday evening. A car, identified as a dark BMW, drove into a crowd of people, leaving at least one person dead and between 60 and 80 others injured. The crash occurred at 7:04 PM, as reported by government officials in the state of Saxony-Anhalt to the dpa news agency.

According to Bild, the vehicle drove approximately 400 meters (1,300 feet) through the market, causing chaos and destruction. Video footage, deemed too graphic to share, captured the horrifying scene as the car careened into the dense crowd. Within seconds, revellers were seen fleeing for their lives, while others attempted to assist the injured.

Emergency services have set up tents at the site to provide immediate treatment, with several victims reported to be severely injured. Witnesses described the market as resembling “war-like conditions.” One eyewitness recounted how the “fairytale area” of the market was filled with families at the time of the crash.

The driver of the car has been arrested, and local police confirmed “extensive police operations are currently taking place.” Authorities have urged people to leave the city center. The Christmas market, located on the Old Market near Magdeburg Town Hall by the River Elbe, was closed following the incident. Hospitals in Magdeburg and neighboring cities, including Halle, are preparing for a mass casualty event, with Halle also increasing its security measures.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his concern on X, writing: “The reports from Magdeburg suggest something bad. My thoughts are with the victims and their families.” Saxony-Anhalt’s Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff called the event “terrible” and announced plans to visit the city to witness the aftermath. Other political leaders, including Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, CDU candidate Friedrich Merz, and AfD leader Alice Weidel, shared their condolences and gratitude for the emergency services.

Magdeburg, the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt with a population of around 240,000, is now reeling from the tragedy. This incident comes less than a month after Germany’s interior minister, Nancy Faeser, advised vigilance at Christmas markets, despite no concrete indications of imminent threats.

The Magdeburg Christmas market, a place of joy and community during the Advent season, has been shattered by this tragic event. As investigations continue, the city and nation mourn the victims and await clarity on the circumstances surrounding this devastating crash. Emergency services and leaders remain dedicated to supporting those affected and ensuring safety in the aftermath.