Hamburg, Germany — May 23, 2025
A stabbing rampage at Hamburg Central Station during Friday evening rush hour has left at least 12 people injured, including six in life-threatening condition, according to local emergency services.
Authorities have arrested a 39-year-old woman believed to be acting alone in the attack, which occurred around 6 p.m. on one of the station’s busiest platforms.
The attacker reportedly targeted commuters waiting on the platform between tracks 13 and 14. The scene quickly turned chaotic as horrified passengers scrambled for safety while others attempted to assist the wounded.
“This was a brutal act of violence in one of the city’s busiest locations,” said a spokesperson for the Hamburg Police. “We have detained the suspect, and initial evidence suggests she acted alone. However, investigations are ongoing.”
Hamburg’s fire service confirmed that six of the victims are in critical condition, with another three sustaining serious injuries and three others treated for minor wounds.
While the police initially stated that there were “no valid figures yet,” they later acknowledged “several” life-threatening injuries via a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Emergency medical teams and forensic investigators swiftly arrived at the scene, cordoning off the area and attending to the victims. A high-speed Intercity-Express (ICE) train, which had its doors open during the time of the attack, remained stationary at the platform as investigators examined the area.
There was no immediate word on the motive for the stabbing, and police have not indicated whether the suspect had any known affiliations or mental health concerns. She remains in custody as authorities conduct a full inquiry.
Regional broadcaster NDR reported that the attack occurred just before the ICE train was scheduled to depart, potentially preventing an even greater tragedy.
The incident has disrupted rail traffic across Hamburg and beyond. German railway operator Deutsche Bahn released a statement expressing its shock and sympathies: “We are deeply shocked by this violent attack at Hamburg Central Station. Our thoughts are with those injured and their families.”
Following the attack, four tracks at the station were temporarily closed, resulting in significant delays and diversions to long-distance and regional train services. Deutsche Bahn advised passengers to check updated schedules and allow for extra travel time.
Carrying weapons such as knives is prohibited on public transport and in stations throughout Hamburg. It remains unclear how the suspect was able to bring the weapon into the station undetected.
Hamburg Central Station is Germany’s second-busiest railway hub, serving more than 500,000 passengers daily. Security presence at the station has been increased in recent months due to a rise in violent incidents across German public transport.
Authorities have urged witnesses or anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue into what is being described as one of the most violent incidents at the station in recent years.
Further updates are expected as police complete their forensic analysis and interview victims and witnesses.