German authorities have stated that they cannot rule out “terrorist motives” following a tragic stabbing incident at a festival in Solingen that left three people dead and several others seriously injured. A 15-year-old has been detained in connection with the attack, under suspicion of failing “to report an imminent crime,” officials confirmed during a news conference on Saturday afternoon.
The violent attack took place on Friday evening at the 650th-anniversary celebrations of the city of Solingen, a town near Düsseldorf and close to Germany’s border with the Netherlands. Police were alerted to the incident shortly after 9:30 p.m. local time when witnesses reported multiple people being stabbed in the Fronhof, a central square where the festival was being held.
A “large-scale” overnight manhunt was launched involving several police forces, with officers issuing warnings urging the public to remain vigilant. On Saturday afternoon, authorities confirmed that a person had been detained, though investigations are ongoing to determine whether others may have been involved in the attack. Searches are being conducted at various locations as part of the investigation.
Tributes, including flowers and a rainbow flag, were left at the scene of the attack as the city mourned the loss of life. However, police continued to advise caution even as residents and visitors paid their respects.
DJ and music producer Topic, who was performing at the festival during the attack, revealed that he was asked to continue his set to avoid mass panic among the attendees as the emergency situation unfolded.
Officials have stated that they are pursuing all leads and have not ruled out the possibility of terrorist involvement in the attack. Investigations into the motive are still ongoing, and authorities are working to uncover any further details about the incident.
Residents in Solingen and the surrounding areas have been urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the police.
