Berlin Pride attack: Police hunt Islamist suspect after van rampage kills one, injures 16

Attack at Berlin Pride

A vehicle plowed into a crowd at Berlin's annual Pride event on Saturday, followed by a knife attack that left one person dead and 16 others injured. German authorities have designated the assault as an Islamist terrorist attack.

The incident occurred in the city's central district, where thousands had gathered for the march. Witnesses reported scenes of panic as a van drove into a group of participants before the driver emerged and began stabbing people.

Manhunt underway

Berlin police have launched a massive manhunt for the suspect, who they believe has ties to Islamist extremism. Officials have not yet confirmed the identity of the attacker or whether he acted alone.

“We are treating this as an Islamist terrorist attack,” a senior German security official told reporters. “The suspect is on the run. We are using all available resources to track him down.”

Special forces units and helicopter patrols have been deployed across the city. Checkpoints have been set up at major transport hubs, including Berlin's main railway station and the airport.

Victims and response

The deceased has not been publicly named. Among the injured, at least three are said to be in critical condition. Hospitals in the area have been put on alert to handle the influx of casualties.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the attack, calling it a “brutal act of violence against the LGBTQ+ community and our democratic values.” German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier also expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.

Pride organisers have cancelled the remainder of the weekend's events. “We are in shock. This was supposed to be a celebration of love and acceptance,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

Investigation and security

The attack has raised serious questions about security at large public gatherings in Germany. The country has been on alert for potential Islamist attacks, but Saturday's incident marks one of the most brazen assaults in recent years.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has ordered heightened security measures at all Pride events across the country. “We will not let terrorists dictate how we live our lives,” she said. “But we must also remain vigilant.”

Investigators are examining the suspect's digital footprint, travel history, and possible links to extremist networks. They have urged the public to share any information that could lead to his capture.

What happens next: The manhunt continues as Germany reels from the attack. Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the suspect's identity and the investigation's progress in the coming hours.