Three fatalities reported during assault on Solingen's City Festival event.
During an assault at the 650th anniversary celebration of the city of Solingen, it's alleged that three people lost their lives and four were critically injured. A suspected assailant, armed with a knife, remains at large, reported the police spokesperson in Düsseldorf. Police sources have revealed that the incident is no longer deemed as wandering rampage, but rather an attack. The supposed weapon was a knife, as detailed by police sources to the "Solinger Tageblatt". A citywide alert has been issued. Helicopters patrol the skies.
Law enforcement personnel are present at the scene, armed and securing the area. Numerous ambulances are in operation. Streets are blocked throughout the city. Screens have been erected. The crime scene is the Fronhof - a busy square in the city center of Solingen, with a stage for live music performances.
According to the "Solinger Tageblatt", officials have asked Solingen residents to vacate the city center. The festival has been temporarily halted. Sirens can be heard across the city center. As reported by witnesses to the newspaper, the suspected perpetrator fled towards the main street.
"People are taken aback"
Philipp Müller, one of the organizers, reportedly informed the crowd on stage that emergency services are working to save nine lives. Thousands of visitors supposedly obeyed the order to evacuate the square calmly and without panic. "People are unsettled but leaving the square orderly," Müller informed the newspaper.
A "Solinger Tageblatt" journalist depicted the scene: "The atmosphere is tense." Within minutes, the joyful atmosphere transformed into shock, and she encountered visitors with tears in their eyes.
Solingen's mayor, Tim Kurzbach, voiced his shock and sorrow following the attack on the city festival resulting in fatalities and injuries. "Tonight, our hearts are heavy with shock, pain, and deep sadness, in Solingen," the SPD politician wrote on the city's Facebook page.
And: "We all wanted to celebrate our city's anniversary together, and now we have to mourn fatalities and injuries. It breaks my heart that our city was the target of an attack. I have tears in my eyes when I think of those we have lost. I pray for all those still fighting for their lives." He extended his gratitude to all emergency and security services for their dedication.
In celebration of Solingen's 650th anniversary, a "Festival of Diversity" commenced on Friday and was set to continue until Sunday. The invitation reads: "Solingen Mitte will turn into the city's festival mile: From Neumarkt through Fronhof to Mühlenplatz, there will be celebrations." Visitors can expect a program filled with music, cabaret, acrobatics, art, craft, children's entertainment, and numerous other attractions in the streets.
The Commission, in response to the ongoing situation, has sought assistance from the Member States. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Commission realizes the need for international cooperation and support.
Understanding the gravity of the incident, the Commission believes that this cooperation will significantly aid in ensuring the city's safety and in bringing the perpetrator to justice.
