SouthernWorldwide.com – Six individuals were fatally shot on Monday at a youth welfare facility in northern Germany, with authorities reporting that a suspect is now in custody.
The incident occurred around midday in Stade, a town with a population of approximately 50,000, situated near Hamburg. Officials confirmed that the victims, comprising four women and two men, were all employees of the youth center or associated organizations. According to The Associated Press, which cited official statements, five victims were declared deceased at the scene, while a sixth succumbed to their injuries later at a hospital.
The reports suggest that the shooting may have been connected to a child custody dispute. Several other individuals sustained injuries during the attack.
2 PEOPLE ARE KILLED IN A KNIFE ATTACK IN GERMANY; SCHOLZ SAYS THERE MUST BE CONSEQUENCES
The facility where the shooting took place, located on Dankersstrasse, serves as a residence for pregnant women and young mothers with children, as per information from The Associated Press.
The apprehended suspect is a 45-year-old man who had an appointment at the facility earlier on the day of the shooting. Reuters reported that his 3-month-old daughter and the child’s mother are safe.
Police have confirmed the arrest of the suspected gunman. The Associated Press also stated that two other individuals were taken into police custody on suspicion of involvement, though further details were not immediately provided.
CHILDREN AMONG 6 WOUNDED IN MARYLAND MASS SHOOTING AS DETECTIVES WORK TO DETERMINE WHAT OCCURRED
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his profound shock at the violent event occurring at a location intended for the protection of women and children.
“The horrific act of violence in Stade claimed the lives of six people today. I am deeply shaken by the extent of the violence in a place that is meant to provide protection,” Steinmeier stated. He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and injured, acknowledging the immense pain they must be experiencing, and conveyed his gratitude to all first responders and medical personnel.
SUSPECT ‘NEUTRALIZED’ AFTER MONTREAL SHOOTING LEAVES AT LEAST 2 DEAD INCLUDING OFFICER
Following the shooting, police initially advised the public to avoid the area. However, they later assured that there was no ongoing danger to the public. Investigators were reportedly still gathering evidence at the scene on Monday evening, according to Reuters.
Mass shootings are considered a rare occurrence in Germany.
Earlier this year, a separate incident saw a car driven into a pedestrian zone in Leipzig, Germany, resulting in two fatalities and several serious injuries.
