A shocking Hamburg train station stabbing left 18 people injured during Friday’s evening rush hour, after a 39-year-old German woman went on a sudden knife rampage. The suspect, who has been taken into custody, is reported to suffer from a serious psychological illness, according to Hamburg police.
Mental Illness, Not Extremism
Authorities announced Saturday that the suspect showed “very clear indications of a psychological illness.” They ruled out any political or extremist motive, clarifying that the attack was not connected to terrorism, far-right, or jihadist ideologies.
There was also no evidence of drug or alcohol influence, and the suspect is believed to have acted alone.
“There are strong signs that the suspect was mentally disturbed, not politically driven,” Hamburg police said in a statement.
Details of the Attack
The incident occurred shortly after 6:00 PM local time on one of the platforms at Hamburg’s central train station. Witnesses report that the woman turned “against passengers”, indiscriminately stabbing people near a stationary train.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and provided on-site treatment to multiple victims, some on waiting trains. Images from the station showed blocked-off platforms and a heavy police presence. Forensic experts were seen examining the scene late into the evening.
Injuries and Victims
Among the 18 victims, four were seriously wounded, including a 24-year-old man and three women aged 24, 52, and 85. Fortunately, all are now out of immediate danger, authorities confirmed Saturday.
The victims ranged in age from 19 to 85, highlighting the random nature of the attack.
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Arrest and Legal Proceedings
The suspect was subdued by two courageous bystanders and law enforcement officers before being arrested without resistance. She was scheduled to appear before a judge later on Saturday.
Police praised the quick intervention of the passersby and emergency response teams for preventing greater harm.
Context: Germany’s Rising Knife Attacks
Germany has faced a series of stabbing incidents in recent months, some of which had jihadist or far-right extremist motives. Just days before this incident, four people were stabbed in Bielefeld, with the suspect later claiming Islamist motivations.
These attacks have elevated concerns over public safety, leading to tougher knife regulations, particularly in zones like Hamburg’s train station, where carrying knives is now prohibited.
Security Concerns and Public Reaction
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed his sorrow in a call to the Mayor of Hamburg:
“My thoughts are with the victims and their families,” Merz stated, according to his spokesperson.
Security remains a top political concern, especially with the surge in far-right political support in recent elections. The AfD party, known for its anti-immigration stance, scored a record 20%+ in the February vote, amplifying the national conversation around law enforcement and mental health management.
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The Hamburg train station stabbing is yet another tragic reminder of the unpredictable nature of public violence. While no extremist links were found in this case, the incident raises pressing questions about mental health support, enforcement of public safety laws, and the effectiveness of knife bans in preventing such attacks.
