Berlin Pride ramming: Police shoot suspect dead
dw.com • • general
Key Points:
- A van ramming attack near Berlin's Christopher Street Day Pride parade on July 25, 2026, killed one person and injured 29 others; the suspect was shot dead by police after attacking officers with a bladed weapon.
- Authorities have classified the incident as an Islamist terrorist attack, with the suspect having previously attempted to join the Islamic State and serving prison time abroad for inciting religious conflict.
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the attack, urging society not to be intimidated by violence and emphasizing the need to stand together against extremism and intolerance.
- The federal public prosecutor's office has taken over the investigation, while political leaders across the spectrum debate security policies and call for stronger counterterrorism measures.
- Vigils and memorials were held in Berlin, including a gathering at the Brandenburg Gate and flags lowered at the Bundestag, as officials and citizens mourned the victims and reaffirmed their commitment to freedom and diversity.
