Germany: Saudi Doctor Arrested for Car ‘Attack’ at Magdeburg Christmas Market

A Saudi national has been arrested in connection with a deadly car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday. The attacker drove a vehicle into the crowded market in the eastern city, killing at least two people and injuring at least 68 others in what authorities have labeled a deliberate act.

The incident occurred around 7 pm, when the market was filled with holiday shoppers. The driver was apprehended at the scene.

Among the victims were an adult and a toddler. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise, as 15 others were reported to have serious injuries.

A video circulating on social media showed a car speeding through the crowd, knocking people down as they fled.

The incident bears similarities to the 2016 Berlin truck attack, in which 13 people were killed.

Details About the Suspect in Magdeburg Christmas Market Attack

The suspect in the deadly car attack at the Christmas market in Magdeburg has been identified as a 50-year-old Saudi national. He moved to Germany in 2006 and was granted a permanent residence permit, according to German Interior Minister Tamara Zieschang. The man had been working as a doctor in Bernburg, a town located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Magdeburg.

Saxony-Anhalt Governor Reiner Haseloff confirmed that, at present, the suspect appears to be a lone actor, and there is no further threat to the city. While the motive for the attack remains unclear, local broadcaster MDR reported that the suspect had not been flagged by German authorities as an Islamist. In response to the incident, Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the victims’ families and the German people, while reiterating its stance against violence. However, no specific comment was made regarding the suspect.