Three individuals perish in assault during Solinger city celebration festival.
At the commemoration event marking the 650th anniversary of Solingen, there are rumors of three deaths and seven injuries, some of which are serious. A man is under suspicion for attacking partygoers with a knife.
The incident took place at night, with the local newspaper, "Solinger Tageblatt", reporting three fatalities, three individuals in critical condition, three with severe injuries, and one person with minor injuries. The culprit is believed to be wielding a knife. Law enforcement has mobilized a large force, with helicopters hovering overhead. As of yet, no arrests have been made.
Police officers are present at the scene, armed, working to maintain order. Barriers have been set up throughout the city, and screens have been erected. The crime scene is the Fronhof, a bustling market square in the city center, hosting a live music stage.
According to the "Solinger Tageblatt", local authorities have urged Solingen residents to vacate the city center. The festivities have been temporarily paused. Ambulance sirens can be heard throughout the city center. One of the event organizers, Philipp Müller, reportedly announced on stage that nine individuals are currently in critical condition, fought for by emergency services. Witnesses report that thousands of attendees are calmly leaving the area, avoiding a mass exodus.
The "Festival of Diversity" commenced on Friday, aiming to celebrate Solingen's 650th anniversary and was scheduled to run until Sunday. The event description read: "Solingen Mitte will transform into the main festival mile: From Neumarkt, through Fronhof, to Mühlenplatz, celebrations will ensue. Visitors could expect a program including music, cabaret, acrobatics, arts and crafts, children's entertainment, and more."
The disturbing incident of knife attacks led to multiple casualties at the event, with reports of three fatalities and seven injured individuals. The suspect, still at large, is believed to have used a knife in his attacks.
