Police in Germany opened fire on an ax-wielding suspect near a Euro 2024 fan parade in Hamburg, putting fans in jeopardy. The incident occurred in the St. Pauli district, where the unidentified person threatened officers with a pickaxe and an incendiary device. The suspect was injured and received medical attention.
The incident took place on the sidelines of a Euro 2024 soccer fan parade, just hours before Poland and the Netherlands were set to play at the Volksparkstadion stadium. The attacker was shot by officers after refusing to drop the ax, hitting him in the leg.
Authorities announced a major police operation in response to the incident, ensuring the safety of the ongoing event at Heiligengeistfeld. The motive behind the attack was not immediately clear, and police are treating it as a lone perpetrator situation.
This incident comes amidst heightened security measures during the Euro 2024 tournament, following a previous attack where police shot and killed an Afghan man who had attacked several people during a televised game. Police have increased their presence across the state in response to these incidents.
The European Soccer Championships 2024 have been marred by violence, prompting authorities to remain vigilant for potential fan violence and terrorist threats. The motive behind these attacks remains under investigation as the tournament continues.
