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German authorities are searching nationwide for a suspect accused of driving a rented van into pedestrians near Berlin’s Christopher Street Day Pride celebrations before allegedly attacking several victims with a bladed weapon believed to be a machete. One woman was killed and at least 29 others were injured.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said all available evidence points to a suspected Islamist terrorist attack, while police warned the suspect may be armed and dangerous. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility that others were involved.
Details
- The attack: Authorities said the suspect drove a rented van onto a pavement near Berlin’s Tiergarten, striking pedestrians before allegedly attacking additional victims with a bladed weapon. The incident occurred several hundred metres from the Pride festival site, which officials said had been secured by police.
- The suspect: Police identified the suspect as Abdul Ballout, 21, a German citizen of Lebanese background. Officials said he had previously come to the attention of authorities through criminal offences, alleged Islamist radicalisation and links to the Islamist extremist scene. Police have released his photograph and warned the public not to approach him because he may be armed and dangerous.
- The investigation: More than 1,000 officers are searching train stations, airports and border crossings as the nationwide manhunt continues. Police have searched properties linked to the suspect and have not ruled out accomplices. Germany’s federal prosecutor is expected to take over the investigation because of the suspected terrorist motive.
- Official response: Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged the public not to be intimidated, saying extremists “have no place in our society” and pledging that those responsible would be brought to justice. Dobrindt said security arrangements at major public events would be reviewed, adding that copycat attacks could not be ruled out.
- The wider context: Germany has experienced several vehicle attacks in recent years, including the 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack. Sunday’s investigation is likely to intensify scrutiny of public security as authorities reassess protection measures for large gatherings across the country.
What Else
Police are continuing to investigate whether the suspect acted alone while reviewing evidence gathered from the vehicle and properties linked to the case. Officials have urged the public to report any sightings but warned against approaching the suspect.
Authorities are also reviewing security plans for upcoming public events, including Pride celebrations elsewhere in Germany, amid concerns that similar attacks could be attempted. The investigation is expected to focus on whether the suspect received assistance and whether additional security measures are needed to protect large public gatherings.
