Munich, Germany – As many as 20 people have been injured after a car plowed into a crowd in Munich on Thursday, just hours before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. Vice President JD Vance were set to arrive in the city.
Vehicle Accelerates Into Pedestrians Near Train Station
The incident occurred on Seidlstrasse Street, just meters from Munich’s central train station, when the driver of a white Mini Cooper suddenly accelerated into a group of people.
According to German media reports, a woman and a baby may have been among those struck, though police have yet to confirm these details.
Eyewitnesses described the crash as “deliberate”, with one person recounting how a victim was seen lying on the street moments after the impact. Others shared harrowing accounts on social media, describing people “crying and shaking” in the aftermath.
Emergency Response and Driver’s Arrest
Videos circulating online show a baby stroller abandoned in the middle of the street as emergency services worked to assist the injured. Police detained the driver at the scene and assured the public that he posed no further threat.
However, German news reports, citing eyewitnesses, claim the suspect was shot before being taken into custody. Another video from a nearby apartment captures police officers rushing toward the car, while sirens blared and at least one helicopter was deployed to the area.
Potential Link to Protest and Security Concerns
The attack appears to have affected individuals participating in a rally organized by the Verdi union, which is demanding higher wages and better working conditions.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the incident is related to the upcoming Munich Security Conference, which is set to begin on Friday. However, heightened security measures are in place ahead of high-profile arrivals, including Zelensky and Vance.
Munich Mayor Reacts
Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter expressed his distress over the incident, stating: “I am deeply shocked. The police chief has just informed me that a vehicle drove into a group of people, and unfortunately, many were injured, including children.”
As investigations continue, police have launched a major security operation to determine the motive behind the attack and ensure public safety.
