Germany has launched a nationwide manhunt after a suspected Islamist attacker drove a minivan into a crowd near Berlin’s Tiergarten park, killing one person and injuring at least 29 others. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. near the Brandenburg Gate, close to celebrations for Christopher Street Day, one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ Pride events.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said early indications point to an Islamist terrorist motive. The suspect, identified by police as 21-year-old Abdul Ballout, is a German citizen of Lebanese descent who was previously known to authorities for criminal activity and signs of radicalisation. He had reportedly been released from juvenile detention just two months ago and was classified among individuals considered potentially dangerous.
Police described him as approximately 1.90 metres tall with black hair and warned the public not to approach him, as he may be armed. Authorities also said the attacker used a bladed weapon, believed to be a machete, after driving into the crowd. It remains unclear whether he acted alone, though one passenger in the vehicle has reportedly been arrested.
The attack has intensified ongoing debates in Germany on security and immigration, particularly as the country approaches regional elections in two months. Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the violence and called for the protection of democratic values, stating that Germany would defend its openness and freedom.
Thousands gathered at the Brandenburg Gate for a vigil, lighting candles and holding signs. Emergency services confirmed that several of the injured remain in critical condition.
The incident is the latest in a series of vehicle attacks in Germany in recent years, including a deadly 2016 truck attack at a Berlin Christmas market and a similar incident in Leipzig earlier this year.