Chaos in Munich: Car Plows Into Demonstrators Near Central Station, Several Injured
Munich, Germany&nbsp;&ndash; A major security alert was triggered in Munich on Thursday morning after a car rammed into a group of demonstrators near the city&rsquo;s central train station. The shocking incident unfolded on Dachauer Strasse, barely 1.5 kilometers from the venue of the high-profile Munich Security Conference (MSC), which is set to begin on Friday.
According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle, reportedly a Mini Cooper, veered into a crowd participating in a demonstration linked to a strike organized by the Verdi union. Local media sources indicate that at least 15 people were injured, with two in critical condition. However, authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of casualties, stating that assessments are ongoing.
Rapid Police Response and Large-Scale Operation
Munich police reacted swiftly, securing the area and deploying a heavy security presence in the vicinity. A spokesperson for the Munich Police Department confirmed that the driver had been detained and assured the public that there was no ongoing threat. &ldquo;There is currently a major police operation in the area of Dachauer Street and Seidl Street. We are on site,&rdquo; the statement read.
Despite widespread speculation, law enforcement has not immediately linked the incident to the protest, leaving room for further investigation. Authorities are working to establish whether the crash was accidental, reckless, or a deliberate attack. Police have also urged any witnesses to come forward to aid in the investigation.
Eyewitness Accounts and Social Media Footage
Several eyewitnesses reported scenes of panic and distress at the scene. Munich-based journalist Sandra Demmelhuber, who was present at the site, described the harrowing moments on social media. &ldquo;I saw someone lying on the street while another man was taken away by police,&rdquo; she wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Bystanders recounted seeing people thrown to the ground by the impact, with emergency responders rushing to provide first aid before transferring the injured to nearby hospitals. One witness, who declined to be named, told local media that the driver &ldquo;did not appear to slow down&rdquo; as the car approached the crowd.
Heightened Security Ahead of Global Summit
The incident comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Germany, particularly as Munich prepares to host key global leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance, for the MSC. Given the city&rsquo;s increased security measures ahead of the conference, authorities are closely examining any possible motives behind the incident.
The timing of the crash&mdash;occurring just days before Germany&rsquo;s upcoming federal election&mdash;has raised further concerns about the safety of public gatherings. With the memory of recent violent attacks in the country still fresh, law enforcement is treating the situation with utmost seriousness.
Authorities Call for Vigilance
Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. While the investigation continues, authorities have emphasized that there is no immediate danger to the public. Additional security measures may be implemented in the coming days, particularly around key locations associated with the MSC.
As the dust settles from the morning&rsquo;s chaos, Munich residents remain on edge, waiting for clarity on whether the crash was a tragic accident or something more sinister. Authorities have promised further updates as the investigation unfolds.

emergency medical services rushed to Dachauer Strasse after car crash reported

Car plows into demonstrators near Munich station; suspect detained as investigation continues

Munich Car Crash: Suspect Driver in Police Custody

Car plows into demonstrators near Munich station; suspect detained as investigation continues

February 13, 2025 | 17:19 IST