A car driving into a crowd at a Munich union rally injured at least 15 people.
Local media reported that a vehicle deliberately struck a group of people participating in a Verdi union rally in Munich, Germany. Eyewitnesses claimed two individuals were involved, with police apprehending one after shooting them. The Munich police department confirmed the incident on X, stating that a significant police presence was at the scene and the driver was in custody, posing no further threat. They warned of traffic disruptions and asked residents to avoid the area.
The rally, part of a broader public sector “warning strike” demanding an 8% pay raise or €350 monthly increase, better bonuses, and additional leave for municipal employees, was held at Munich’s Königsplatz, according to FDP Bavaria chairman Martin Hagen. He noted emergency services, including medical helicopters, responded to the incident. The attacker’s motive and background remain unknown. The union subsequently canceled the rally. Later reports confirmed children were among the injured. Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter expressed shock at the event, confirming the suspect’s arrest, while stating their background was unclear.
This incident follows a similar December event in Magdeburg where a car drove into a Christmas market, causing five deaths and over 200 injuries. Prior to that event, German authorities received warnings about the perpetrator’s extremist views from Saudi Arabia, who had requested his extradition, yet those warnings were not heeded, sparking debate regarding security and immigration policies.
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