At least 18 people were injured Friday evening in a brutal knife attack at Hamburg Central Station, one of Germany’s busiest transportation hubs, with several victims reported in critical condition.
Authorities apprehended a 39-year-old German woman at the scene, who remains in custody as investigations continue into her motive.
The violent incident took place around 6 p.m. local time (4 p.m. GMT) on platforms 13 and 14 during rush hour, as a train was stationed and passengers hurried through the crowded terminal. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes marked by panic and confusion, while emergency responders rushed to provide urgent care—some victims were treated directly on trains.
Hamburg Police described the event as a “major operation,” confirming multiple life-threatening injuries. Footage circulating on social media shows the suspect, handcuffed, being led away by officers.
Police spokesperson Florian Abbenseth stated the suspect is believed to have acted alone, with no evidence at this stage indicating political or extremist motives. Early assessments suggest the attacker may have been suffering from mental health issues.
The homicide division has taken over the investigation and is examining the suspect’s psychological state and potential triggers. She is expected to appear in court Saturday.
The attack severely disrupted operations at the station, which handles over 550,000 travelers daily. Four platforms were temporarily closed, causing widespread delays and diversions. Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national railway operator, urged passengers to monitor service updates amid ongoing disruptions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the attack as “shocking,” commending the swift and courageous response of emergency personnel. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families,” he said in a statement.
Images from the scene reveal a significant police and paramedic presence, with barriers set up to shield victims from public view. One photograph widely shared shows a man being stretchered away by paramedics.
This violent episode adds to a troubling series of public attacks in Germany in recent months. Notably, a stabbing in Aschaffenburg in January claimed two lives, while a February assault on a Spanish tourist at Berlin’s Holocaust Memorial stirred national debate.
Last December, a deadly vehicle attack at a Magdeburg Christmas market left six dead and hundreds injured. Previous assailants were foreign nationals, intensifying discussions on border security.
However, Friday’s attacker being a German citizen is likely to renew conversations around public safety, mental health care, and law enforcement readiness.
Police have appealed to witnesses and anyone with video evidence to come forward as the investigation progresses.
