Nine-Year-Old Boy Killed in German Christmas Market Attack
A tragic incident at a German Christmas market leaves a nine-year-old boy dead and many others injured, prompting national mourning.
Magdeburg, Germany, Christmas Market, Attack, André Gleißner, Taleb al-Abdulmohsen
Magdeburg: A nine-year-old boy named André Gleißner lost his life when a car crashed into Christmas shoppers. This tragic event happened on Friday evening, and it left many people injured.
André was one of five victims in this horrific attack. Along with him, four women aged between 45 and 75 also died when the vehicle barreled into the crowd around 7 PM.
The suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi doctor named Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, has been charged with five counts of murder and several counts of attempted murder.
André’s mother, Désirée, shared a touching tribute on social media. She expressed her heartbreak, saying, “Let my little teddy bear fly around the world again.” She couldn’t understand why this happened to her son, who was only with them for nine years.
She added that he would always live in their hearts and that he was now with his grandparents in heaven. It’s just so sad.
This attack has shaken Germany, and memorial services are being held nationwide for the victims. Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier attended a service at the city’s cathedral, calling it a moment of compassion for a city in mourning.
Scholz emphasized that all of Germany stands with Magdeburg during these dark times. The suspect, who moved to Germany in 2006, appeared in court and is now in custody.
As a mark of respect, cathedral bells rang at 7:04 PM on Saturday, exactly 24 hours after the attack. Football matches across the Bundesliga also observed moments of silence.
Scholz remarked on the tragedy of such violence occurring in a place meant for joy and celebration. Authorities are concerned that the death toll could rise, as many remain in serious condition.