Munich Attack: Motive and Extent of Islamic Connection Unclear
Munich, Germany – Police and prosecutors in Munich provided an update on the ongoing investigation into the attack on a ver.di demonstration in the city center. According to Chief Prosecutor Gabriele Tilman, the suspect admitted during a two-hour interrogation that he had intentionally driven his car into the demonstration. He will be presented to a judge later today. The arrest warrant cites 36 counts of attempted murder.
Tilman stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, but the suspect’s alleged motive can be summarized as "religious." After the attack, he reportedly uttered the phrase "Allahu Akbar" to officers. Based on current information, an Islamist motive is assumed, but there is no evidence of contact with extremist groups like the self-proclaimed Islamic State. The suspect’s electronic devices are currently being analyzed.
Police reported that 36 injured individuals have registered with authorities, with the number expected to rise. Two are critically injured, including a child. Eight others sustained serious or moderate injuries, while the remaining have minor injuries.
Discrepancies in Official Statements
Munich police and the State Criminal Police Office addressed the incorrect information disseminated by authorities and the state government following the attack. Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann (CSU) initially stated that the suspect was known to police for shoplifting and drug offenses. Herrmann later retracted this statement, acknowledging that the suspect had no prior criminal record.
Munich’s Deputy Police Chief Christian Huber explained the discrepancy by saying that the suspect had worked as a shop detective and had been involved in investigations related to shoplifting and drug violations as a complainant and witness. Authorities also had to correct claims that the suspect was subject to a deportation order. Tilman clarified that he had been legally resident in Germany, where he worked and lived in a rented apartment in Munich.
Timeline of Events
Investigators confirmed the previously reported details of the attack. The suspect approached the police escort vehicle at the rear of the demonstration in a Mini Cooper. He overtook the vehicle and drove into the crowd. The Mini Cooper was registered to him.
Islamic Motive Remains Uncertain
While the suspect has invoked religious motivations, Tilman emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and the exact nature of his Islamic connections is still under scrutiny. There is no evidence so far to suggest that he was influenced by or a member of a known Islamist terror group.
The investigation continues, and this article will be updated as more information becomes available.
