IP - A 26-year-old Afghan asylum seeker drove a Mini Cooper car into a crowd of people, killed a woman, and injured at least 28 other people in the southern German city of Munich at the head of the Munich security conference.

Why it matters:

The incident raises concerns about public safety and security in Germany, particularly in light of the upcoming federal election and the heightened tensions surrounding the Munich Security Conference

The big picture:

As Munich gears up for a major international security event, the car attack underscores the challenges of ensuring safety in urban areas, especially during large gatherings. The incident also highlights the ongoing issues of violence and security in Germany.

What he's saying:

Munich police spokesperson said that "At least 28 people injured, some seriously and critically,” while local witnesses described a chaotic scene, with one reporter noting, “People are sitting on the ground, crying and trembling."

Key points:

  • The Munich Security Conference is set to begin on Friday, with senior officials arriving later on Thursday.
  • The incident occurred near the central train station, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the conference venue, affecting demonstrators linked to a strike organized by the Verdi union.
  • Several of the injuries are labeled as severely injured and critical. Several children are among the injured.

Go deeper:

Authorities have established a gathering point for witnesses at the Loewenbraeukeller as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Verdi union has stated it has no information regarding the attack, further complicating the narrative as the city braces for the influx of international dignitaries.

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