- Government investigators are currently scrutinizing the town of Solingen.
Following the knife assault in Solingen that led to three casualties, the Federal Investigative Agency is examining the suspect on accusations of homicide and presumed affiliation with the terrorist group Islamic State (IS). A representative from the premier German prosecutorial body spoke to the German Press Agency in Karlsruhe. Previously, the Federal Investigative Agency assumed control of the investigation from the local authorities. As per police records, a 26-year-old turned themselves in to the investigatory bodies on Saturday evening. The 26-year-old admitted responsibility for the attack. The case involving this individual is being thoroughly analyzed.
On a Friday evening, an apparent random attacker stabbed bystanders at a jubilee celebration honoring the 650th anniversary of Solingen - the "Festival of Diversity." Tragically, two men aged 67 and 56, and a 56-year-old woman, lost their lives. Eight individuals were wounded, four of whom severely. The Islamic State announced responsibility for the attack, but no confirmation of a religious motivation has been provided by security forces yet.
Prosecutor: Terrorist Motive Not Ruled Out
Regarding a search at a refugee shelter, Interior Minister Herbert Reul (CDU) stated on Saturday evening that it stemmed from newly evaluated information. "However, that's not what we desired. We've been chasing a hot lead all day." This lead eventually proved fruitful. "The individual we've been tracking down all day is now in our custody." Reul expressed they had a "profound suspicion" towards this individual.
Leading Senior Public Prosecutor Markus Caspers shared his perspective on the attack's background at a Wuppertal press conference on Saturday afternoon. "Thus far, we haven't found a motive. Yet, given the overall context, we cannot dismiss the initial suspicion of a terrorist motive."
Police Statement
The Federal Prosecutor's Office, also known as The Commission, is closely monitoring the case due to the initial suspicion of a terrorist motive. Following the arrest of the suspect, The Commission will continue its thorough investigation to establish the true motivation behind the attack.
