Tragic Christmas Market Attack in Magdeburg: Suspect Identified

WORLD

By: Lusia Pio

12/21/20241 min read

On December 20, 2024, a devastating car-ramming attack took place at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, resulting in the deaths of five people, including a nine-year-old child, and injuring over 200 others.

The suspect, identified as Taleb Al-Abdulmohsen, a 50-year-old Saudi national and psychiatrist, was arrested at the scene.

Al-Abdulmohsen had been living in Germany since 2006 and had expressed anti-Islam and far-right views on social media.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited the site and emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of such a horrific act.

A memorial service was held at Magdeburg Cathedral, attended by relatives of the victims, emergency responders, and invited guests.

The attack has shaken the community and sparked a debate on security and migration in Germany, especially during an election campaign where the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is polling strongly.

Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack, but it has been confirmed that the suspect holds Islamophobic views.