On the evening of Friday, May 23, 2025, a mass stabbing occurred at Hamburg Central Station, Germany, resulting in at least 18 injuries. The attack took place around 6:05 PM local time on the platform between tracks 13 and 14, where passengers were awaiting an Intercity Express train bound for Fulda. Witnesses reported sudden screams as the assailant began indiscriminately stabbing individuals on the platform. Bystanders managed to restrain the attacker until police arrived and took her into custody.
The suspect, a 39-year-old German woman, was arrested at the scene without resistance. Authorities believe she acted alone and have found no evidence suggesting a political motive. Investigations are ongoing, with a focus on the suspect’s mental health.
Emergency services reported that six victims sustained life-threatening injuries, three were seriously injured, and three had minor wounds. Some victims received immediate treatment on-site, including on the trains.
The incident led to significant disruptions at Hamburg Central Station, one of Europe’s busiest transport hubs, serving over 500,000 passengers daily. Four platforms were closed, and train services were delayed or diverted. The station area was cordoned off for forensic investigation, and streets between Hühnerposten and Steintor were temporarily closed.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, offering support to Hamburg’s mayor. Railway operator Deutsche Bahn also expressed deep shock following the incident.
This attack follows a series of violent incidents in Germany, prompting increased security measures at public transport hubs across the country.
