A driver who ploughed into pedestrians in central Leipzig is a German national known to local authorities, according to reports. At least two people have lost their lives and more than 20 others have been injured in the incident, with fears that the number of victims could rise further.
The driver who struck pedestrians in the heart of Leipzig is a citizen of the Federal Republic of Germany and was already known to local law enforcement, broadcaster NTV has reported on Tuesday. The tragedy has claimed at least two lives.
Contrary to earlier media reports, the suspect did not attempt to flee the scene after driving into people on the central shopping street. Police officers arrested him inside his vehicle. More than 20 people were injured in the incident, and the death toll may yet increase. The detainee, aged 33, is a German national. He remains in custody.
Earlier, journalists had suggested that the driver might be suffering from a mental illness, citing his erratic behaviour at the time of his arrest. No further details have been released regarding his conduct or any possible diagnosis.
The damaged Volkswagen SUV sped from Augustusplatz along Grimmaische Strasse, through a pedestrian zone towards Thomaskirchhof. A rescue helicopter has landed at the square.
