A motorist drove into a crowd of union demonstrators in central Munich on Thursday, injuring 28 people in what authorities believe was a deliberate attack, according to German police.
The suspect, a 24-year-old Afghan man, was detained and is no longer considered a threat, Bavarian Governor Markus Söder confirmed.
The crash happened as Munich prepared to host the annual Security Conference, which will be attended by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, Bavaria’s interior minister stated that there is no indication the incident is linked to the conference.
Munich police reported that the vehicle—a light-colored Mini Cooper—accelerated before striking the crowd. Officers fired a shot at the car during the incident. Initially, at least 20 people were reported injured, with two in serious condition. Photos and videos from the scene captured the chaotic aftermath, with victims being treated and a heavy police presence securing the area.
Witnesses described a scene of distress, with some people crying and shaking on the ground.
Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter expressed his shock and concern for the injured. The demonstration targeted by the attack was organized by Verdi, one of Germany’s largest labor unions. Verdi Chairman Frank Werneke called the incident deeply shocking and extended solidarity to the victims and their families.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has signaled plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia to discuss the Ukraine conflict. The White House confirmed that Vance and Rubio will meet with Zelenskyy during the conference.
The Munich Security Conference released a statement expressing sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the victims and their families.
