Police in Germany opened fire on an ax-wielding suspect during a Euro 2024 fan parade in Hamburg. The suspect threatened officers with a pickaxe and incendiary device in the St. Pauli district, putting fans in jeopardy. The incident occurred on the sidelines of the soccer fan parade, which was taking place before a match between Poland and the Netherlands. The attacker was injured and received medical attention, with the police announcing a major operation was underway to ensure the safety of the event.
The German police department stated that the suspect was acting alone and that there was no immediate connection to football. The motive behind the attack was not revealed. The incident coincided with a Dutch fan parade, with nearly 40,000 soccer fans marching through the entertainment district. The suspect reportedly walked out of a bar and began waving the ax in a threatening manner, leading officers to open fire after he refused to drop the weapon. Images were published showing the suspect lying in the street surrounded by paramedics and police officers.
German authorities have been on high alert during the Euro 2024 tournament due to the potential for fan violence and terrorist attacks. In a separate incident, police shot and killed a 27-year-old Afghan national who fatally attacked a compatriot with a knife-like object and wounded three others during a televised game between Germany and Scotland. The motive for that attack was still unclear. The Interior Ministry in Saxony-Anhalt state, where the incident took place, stated that police presence had been increased across the state in response.
The incident in Hamburg comes as German police continue to prepare for potential violence during Euro 2024. Earlier in the tournament, police intervened in a violent incident that resulted in the shooting of an attacker. The safety and security of fans and the public remain a top priority for law enforcement during the event. The motive behind the attack in Hamburg is still under investigation, and authorities are working to ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future.
The fan parade in Hamburg, which took place before a match between Poland and the Netherlands, was disrupted by the incident with the ax-wielding suspect. Police acted quickly to neutralize the threat and ensure the safety of those in attendance. The department announced a major police operation in response to the incident, indicating that security measures were in place to protect against further threats. The investigation into the motive behind the attack and the circumstances leading up to it is ongoing.
Overall, the incident in Hamburg highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement during major sporting events such as Euro 2024. The potential for violence and security threats requires careful planning and coordination among law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of fans and the public. German authorities are taking proactive measures to prevent further incidents and maintain a high level of security throughout the tournament. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of effective security measures in managing large-scale events and ensuring the safety of participants and spectators.
