Berlin Pride attack kills one, injures 29; Hamburg reviews security for next week's CSD parade

The attack in Berlin

Late Saturday evening, a car was driven into a group of people at the edge of Berlin's Christopher Street Day celebrations. The attack killed one woman and injured 29 others, some seriously, according to Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt. The incident occurred as the annual Pride event was winding down.

Investigation and manhunt

On Sunday afternoon, Dobrindt classified the act as an Islamist terrorist attack based on initial investigation results. The suspect fled the scene and remains at large; an intensive manhunt is underway. Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig announced that the Federal Prosecutor's Office in Karlsruhe will take over the case.

Hamburg's response

The attack cast a shadow over the start of Hamburg's Pride Week, which began this weekend. Hamburg Mayor Peter Tschentscher said the city's security authorities are doing everything to protect the upcoming CSD demonstration and Pride Week events. Hundreds of thousands are expected at the parade next Saturday.

“The attack in Berlin also overshadows the start of Pride Week in Hamburg. The Hamburg security authorities are doing everything to protect the CSD demonstration and the Pride Week events in our city, so that a strong signal of tolerance and diversity can emanate from Hamburg this year as well.”

Interior Senator Andy Grote announced a review of security measures, particularly regarding vehicle attacks. Equality Senator Maryam Blumenthal said her office is in close contact with police and the queer community to ensure participants can demonstrate freely and safely.

“Against the backdrop of the terrible act in Berlin, the security measures for the CSD next week in Hamburg will be carefully reviewed once again to ensure the highest level of security.”

On Sunday afternoon, around 800 people attended a vigil in Hamburg. Hamburg Pride organizers also called for a demonstration in the city center at Neuer Jungfernstieg/Lombardsbrücke. Spokesman Manuel Opitz stressed the community's resolve.

“It is important that we do not let ourselves be made invisible by violence. What we need now is the backing of the city's society. That is why we call on all Hamburgers to take part in the CSD.”

Political solidarity

Leaders across northern Germany expressed shock and solidarity. Schleswig-Holstein's Minister President Daniel Günther, a patron of the state's CSD events, said the attack made painfully clear how vulnerable the freedom to live and love without fear has become. Lower Saxony's Minister President Olaf Lies called the attack "vile" and pledged support for Berlin and all who stand for an open society. Hamburg's Second Mayor Katharina Fegebank said she was "sad and angry", noting that queer people still have to be afraid simply because they are queer.

“That a festival of love and diversity has become the target of a suspected Islamist attack makes it clear once again that queer people still have to be afraid today - solely because they are queer.”

Next steps

The Hamburg CSD parade is scheduled for next Saturday, 1 August. Authorities are in ongoing talks with organizers to finalize the security concept. The Pride Week events will continue as planned, with organizers emphasizing visibility and resilience.