A suspect has been detained after six people were fatally shot Monday at a youth welfare facility in northern Germany, officials said.
The attack took place around midday in Stade, a community of roughly 50,000 residents near Hamburg. Authorities said the victims — four women and two men — were employees of the youth center or connected organizations. Five died at the scene, and a sixth victim later succumbed to injuries at a hospital, The Associated Press reported, citing officials.
Several additional people were injured, and investigators are examining whether the violence may have stemmed from a child custody dispute, the outlet reported.
The shooting occurred around midday in Stade, a town of about 50,000 people located near Hamburg. (News5/Reuters)
Police said the gunfire erupted at a facility on Dankersstrasse that provides housing for pregnant women and young mothers with children, according to The Associated Press.
The suspect, identified only as a 45-year-old man, had an appointment at the facility earlier that day before the shooting began around noon. His 3-month-old daughter and the child’s mother were not harmed, Reuters reported.
The alleged gunman was taken into custody. Police also said two other people faced police measures over suspected involvement, though officials did not release further details, according to The Associated Press.
Officials said the victims — four women and two men — all worked for the youth center or related organizations. (News5/Reuters)
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German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said he was “deeply shocked” by the violence at a place meant to protect women and children.
“The horrific act of violence in Stade claimed the lives of six people today. I am deeply shaken by the extent of the violence in a place that is meant to provide protection,” Steinmeier said.
“My condolences go to the families of the dead and injured, who must endure so much pain. My thanks go to all first responders and doctors.”
Police warned people to avoid the area after the shooting but later said there was no danger to the public. (News5/Reuters)
Police warned people to avoid the area after the shooting but later said there was no danger to the public. Investigators were still collecting evidence Monday evening, Reuters reported.
Mass shootings in Germany are rare.
Earlier this year, a car plowed into a pedestrian zone in Leipzig, Germany, killing two people and leaving several others seriously injured.
Stade Police could not immediately be reached by News Agency for comment.
