German car attack suspect to remain in detention

Police say a German man who drove into crowds and injured eight people in what appear to have been intentional attacks against foreigners has been ordered kept in detention pending possible formal charges

Written by Monika Walker

Published

Updated

Police say a German man who drove into crowds and injured eight people in what appear to have been intentional attacks against foreigners has been ordered kept in detention pending possible formal charges.

The attacks began shortly after midnight on January 1, first in Bottrop in western Germany and later in Essen. The 50-year-old suspect, who comes from Essen, is believed to have no previous police record.

The victims included a 46-year-old Syrian woman who suffered life-threatening injuries.

Police said Wednesday that a judge on Tuesday night ordered the suspect held in detention while the investigation on suspicion of attempted homicide continues.

Police say the suspect made anti-foreigner comments during his arrest and there were indications he had been treated for mental illness in the past.

Author Profile

Monika Walker is a senior journalist specializing in regional and international politics, offering in-depth analysis on governance, diplomacy, and key global developments. With a degree in International Journalism, she is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices through factual reporting. She also covers world news across every genre, providing readers with balanced and timely insights that connect the Caribbean to global conversations.