In brief
On February 14, 2025, an Afghan refugee drove a Mini Cooper into a union demonstration in Munich, injuring 36 individuals, including several children. The driver confessed to intentionally crashing into the crowd, raising concerns ahead of upcoming federal elections focused on migration. Police have launched an investigation while support services are aiding the victims.
On Thursday morning, a shocking incident unfolded in Munich as a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker drove a Mini Cooper into a crowd of people participating in a union demonstration. This deliberate attack injured nearly 40 individuals, prompting an aggressive police response. Authorities confirmed that the driver had confessed to intentionally plowing into the crowd.The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. During the march, witnesses reported the Mini Cooper accelerating towards the group before crashing into them. Local police officers, who were present to oversee the protest, noticed the vehicle approaching at high speed and responded by firing a single shot as they attempted to detain the suspect. Emergency medical services rushed to the scene with multiple ambulances and a helicopter.By Friday, health officials reported that 36 victims had been treated for various injuries—among them, several children, including a severely injured 12-year-old girl who remains in intensive care. The victims were union members and supporters, gathered for a one-day strike organized by Verdi, Germany’s major public sector union, involving workers from various essential services.As the investigation continues, police have established a temporary command post for witnesses, collecting evidence and video footage to understand the full scope of the incident. This attack unfolds against the backdrop of heightened political tensions in Germany, just ten days before pivotal federal elections that have prominently addressed migration issues. The ramifications of this attack could significantly influence the political landscape in the days to come.
