A tragic incident unfolded at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday, as a car rammed into visitors, leaving several dead and injuring approximately 60 others, according to U.S. law enforcement sources.
German authorities are treating the attack as a potential act of terrorism, U.S. officials informed ABC News. A suspect has been arrested, and extensive police operations are ongoing at the scene. The Christmas market has been closed while authorities investigate the incident.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his condolences to those affected by the attack. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families. We stand by their side and by the side of the people of Magdeburg. My thanks go to the dedicated rescue workers in these anxious hours,” Scholz said.
Magdeburg, located approximately two hours west of Berlin, is the latest site of such a tragedy. The incident occurred nearly eight years after a December 19, 2016, terror attack at a Berlin Christmas market, where a truck was driven into a crowd, killing 13 and injuring dozens.
The use of vehicles in attacks has been an ongoing concern for security agencies worldwide. In the United States, law enforcement officials have raised awareness about the potential for vehicle-ramming incidents during high-profile events, particularly as New Year’s Eve approaches.
In New York City, heightened security measures are being implemented at public gatherings, including Christmas markets. Rebecca Weiner, NYPD’s deputy commissioner for counterterrorism, emphasized the department’s commitment to ensuring public safety.
“This is a very festive and busy time in the city,” Weiner said. “We are deploying counter-terrorism officers, critical response teams, and patrol officers to protect all holiday markets and activities.”
The NYPD continues to monitor potential threats and collaborate with federal agencies to safeguard public spaces.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
