In Solingen, Germany, three people were killed and four others seriously injured in a knife attack at a festival on Friday night, according to police. The search for the suspect continued into Saturday morning, with authorities setting up numerous roadblocks around the city.
A police spokeswoman from nearby Düsseldorf reported that the manhunt had expanded beyond Solingen, and police were soliciting information, including photos and videos, through an online portal. There is currently no detailed description of the suspect.
The attack occurred during a festival celebrating the city’s 650th anniversary, which featured various events, including music and street performances. The assailant reportedly attacked people indiscriminately with a knife, according to Bild daily.
In response to the violence, Mayor Tim-Oliver Kurzbach expressed deep shock and grief, stating that the city was mourning the dead and injured. Hendrik Wuest, the premier of North Rhine-Westphalia state, also voiced his shock and sorrow, calling the incident an act of “brutal and senseless violence.”
Following the attack, the festival was cancelled, and attendees were evacuated from the city center. Philipp Mueller, one of the festival organizers, described the scene as “ghostly,” with people leaving in shock but calmly.
The festival, expected to draw up to 75,000 visitors over three days, was abruptly called off. Germany has experienced a series of knife attacks in the past year, leading to promises from Interior Minister Nancy Faeser to intensify efforts against knife crime.
