Hamburg, Germany – A horrific knife attack at a central train station in downtown Hamburg left 17 people injured on Thursday evening, sparking chaos and fear among commuters and drawing a swift response from emergency services. Police have arrested a female suspect in connection with the violent incident, which unfolded at approximately 6 p.m. on a busy platform.
According to authorities, the attacker allegedly began targeting individuals on the platform between tracks 13 and 14, a typically crowded area during peak travel hours. Witnesses described scenes of panic as screams rang out and passengers scrambled for safety amid the unfolding violence.
The suspect, a woman whose identity has not yet been released, was apprehended at the scene shortly after the attack. Police were quick to cordon off the station and begin their investigation. A motive for the attack has not been confirmed, and police spokesperson Florian Abbenseth stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest a political motivation behind the incident.
The extent of the injuries varied significantly among the 17 victims. Four individuals are reported to be in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. Six others sustained serious wounds requiring hospitalization, while seven more suffered light injuries and were treated at the scene or released shortly thereafter.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic and terrifying ordeal. “People were running, crying, and shouting for help,” said one commuter who had just exited a train when the attack began. “I saw someone on the ground bleeding, and others trying to help before police arrived.”
Emergency medical teams, including trauma specialists, rushed to the site within minutes and worked urgently to stabilize the victims. The station was temporarily shut down, with rail traffic diverted or delayed as police conducted a thorough sweep of the area to ensure there were no further threats.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser expressed her concern and support for the victims, stating, “This act of violence is deeply shocking. Our thoughts are with the injured and their families. We are working closely with the Hamburg authorities to understand exactly what happened.”
Authorities have called on the public to provide any video or photographic evidence that may assist in the investigation. Surveillance footage from the station is currently under review, and witnesses are being interviewed to piece together the sequence of events.
The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation. Officials have not yet commented on her background, mental health status, or whether she had a prior criminal record.
This latest incident adds to growing concerns about public safety in busy transport hubs. While knife attacks are not uncommon in Germany, particularly in urban centers, large-scale incidents like this remain rare. Police have increased patrols in major stations across the country in the wake of the Hamburg attack as a precautionary measure.
As the investigation continues, residents and travelers in Hamburg are urged to remain vigilant but calm. More details are expected in the coming days as law enforcement works to uncover the full circumstances and motivations behind the shocking act of violence.