Six Killed in Shooting at Germany’s Mothers and Children Center
Six people shot dead at centre – Authorities in Germany have confirmed six fatalities following a shooting at a facility dedicated to supporting mothers and children. The incident occurred in Stade, a town approximately 30 kilometers west of Hamburg, and involved a male suspect linked to a custody dispute over his infant daughter.
The victims, comprising four women and two men, were all employees at the youth welfare center. Additional individuals sustained injuries during the attack. Officials noted that the baby and her mother were present in the office at the time but remained unharmed.
Shooting Details and Location
The attack was reported around 12:10 local time (10:10 GMT), with police later confirming multiple casualties at the Dankerstrasse facility. The shooting led to the immediate closure of the area as emergency services arrived in force.
“It is not a case of femicide, nor does it involve a political background or anything of that nature. Rather it is an extended family tragedy,” stated a police spokesperson, as relayed by AFP news agency.
Witnesses told German media that law enforcement had pursued the suspect in a vehicle. One eyewitness recounted police shouting “stop where you are” before firing between 10 and 15 shots at the car as it fled the scene.
Footage from Bild newspaper showed a roadblock on a country road, where officers stopped a Mercedes with a flat tire. Armed personnel were seen detaining the occupants, who had been lying face down in the road.
Impact on Nearby Schools
German broadcasters ZDF and RTL reported that children at a nearby daycare and primary school were present during the shooting. Parents quickly collected the affected students, ensuring their safety.
Stade, a city in Lower Saxony, has a population of roughly 50,000 residents. The event has prompted calls for public updates, with officials asking those in or near the area to reach out if possible.
