Roland Weber, the Federal Victim Commissioner, has taken charge of supporting the victims of the attack on the Berlin Christopher Street Day (CSD) that took place on Saturday evening. On Sunday, Weber expressed his shock, stating, “The terrible attack on the visitors of the Berlin CSD leaves me speechless.” He shared his thoughts with the bereaved family of the deceased woman and wished the injured a speedy and full recovery, adding that his sympathy extends to those who experienced this atrocious act. The Victim Commissioner noted that it is “particularly distressing that an event like the CSD-which is all about equal rights for everyone and, above all, love-could have been targeted by such a hateful attack.” Weber confirmed that he and his team, alongside Berlin’s central contact point for victims of terrorist attacks and major incidents, are providing support to all victims and their relatives.
Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig (SPD) also strongly condemned the event, saying, “The attack on the Christopher Street Day celebrations in Berlin deeply shakes us. My thoughts are with the victims, their relatives, and everyone who witnessed this terrible crime.” Hubig emphasized that the CSD stands for diversity, respect, freedom, and joy of life. She added that anyone who attacks people celebrating peacefully attacks “these liberal values, our open society, and the queer community.” The Minister offered exceptional solidarity and sympathy following the incident. She thanked all the helpers and emergency responders who provided immediate and dedicated assistance to the victims. Hubig confirmed that the incident would be investigated and pursued with “all due consequence,” and stated that the Federal Public Prosecutor General would take over further investigations if the legal requirements were met.
Meanwhile, the search for the attacker is ongoing. The arrest of an alleged passenger in the attack vehicle has not yet been officially confirmed. A 21-year-old individual, identified as Abdul B., is believed to have driven a small truck into the Berlin Tiergarten around 10 p.m. on Saturday, where CSD participants were celebrating. He reportedly crashed into a tree and then fled. According to the Interior Ministry, several people were “injured by stabbing tools,” as he allegedly attacked bystanders with a machete. Latest reports indicate that a woman was killed and 29 people were injured in the attack. Police sources have since confirmed that the injured victims are no longer in life-threatening danger.
